Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bifidobacterium (mixed strains) has been investigated for its role in supporting or treating colitis, particularly in the context of inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses suggest that certain probiotic mixtures containing Bifidobacterium species (often in combination with Lactobacillus and other genera) may help reduce inflammation, promote remission, and maintain gut barrier integrity in patients with colitis.

The proposed mechanisms include modulation of the gut microbiota composition, enhancement of mucosal barrier function, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and competitive inhibition of pathogenic bacteria. For example, the probiotic formulation VSL#3, which contains multiple Bifidobacterium strains along with other probiotics, has shown efficacy in randomized controlled trials for inducing and maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis and for preventing pouchitis. Some studies report improvements in clinical and endoscopic remission rates compared to placebo, although the magnitude of benefit can vary. However, results are not entirely consistent across studies, and single-strain Bifidobacterium supplementation has less robust evidence than multi-strain formulations.

Overall, while the evidence is not definitive and more high-quality, large-scale trials are needed, the use of Bifidobacterium (especially as part of multi-strain probiotic mixtures) for colitis has a moderate level of scientific support, particularly as an adjunct to conventional therapy.

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