Bifidobacteria
Other names for Bifidobacteria
bb-12 bifidobacterium lactis
bifidobacterium animalis lactis
bifidobacterium animalis lactis extract
bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis cul34
bifidobacterium bifidum
bifidobacterium bifidum ha-132
bifidobacterium bifidum r0071
bifidobacterium breve
bifidobacterium breve m-16v
bifidobacterium lactis bb-12
bifidobacterium lactis bl-04
bifidobacterium lactis hn019
bifidobacterium longum
bifidobacterium longum (ha-135)
bifidobacterium longum patented strain bb536
bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis
bifidus acidophilus
b. lactis, bb-12
b. lactis sd-5219
howaru
howaru bifido
Bifidobacteria (unspecified)
Synopsis of Bifidobacteria
History
Bifidobacteria have a longstanding reputation for their beneficial effects on human health, dating back to their initial discovery in the early 20th century. First isolated from the stool of breastfed infants, these probiotic bacteria were recognized for their positive influence on the digestive system. Historically, cultures around the world have consumed fermented foods rich in bifidobacteria, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and miso, as natural remedies to support digestion, enhance immunity, and restore balance after illness or antibiotic use.
In traditional medicinal practices, bifidobacteria have been employed to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort, prevent diarrhea, and manage symptoms of lactose intolerance. Their ability to produce lactic acid and other metabolites helps to maintain a healthy gut environment, suppress harmful microbes, and support nutrient absorption. These attributes made bifidobacteria a staple in folk remedies for soothing upset stomachs, treating infant colic, and improving overall vitality.
Modern herbal formulations often incorporate bifidobacteria alongside plant-based ingredients such as chamomile, licorice root, and slippery elm. These combinations aim to synergize the calming and anti-inflammatory properties of herbs with the restorative actions of probiotics, providing comprehensive support for digestive health. Such blends are valued for promoting gut flora balance, strengthening the immune system, and enhancing resilience to stress and illness. The ongoing integration of bifidobacteria into nutritional and herbal products highlights their remarkable contributions to well-being, making them a trusted ally in both traditional and contemporary wellness practices.
Traditional and scientific validation
Bifidobacteria are a group of beneficial bacteria that naturally inhabit the human gastrointestinal tract, especially in infants. Historically, their presence was first identified in the early 20th century, with early studies linking a predominance of Bifidobacteria in breastfed infants to better digestive health. Over the decades, the inclusion of Bifidobacteria as an ingredient in nutritional products such as infant formulas, yogurts, and dietary supplements has grown, based on their potential to support digestive and immune health.
Scientific research has explored the effects of Bifidobacteria supplementation in various populations. Several clinical studies suggest that certain strains may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), reduce the incidence and duration of infectious diarrhea, and improve stool consistency, particularly in children and the elderly. In infants, Bifidobacteria have been associated with a healthier gut microbiota composition and a decreased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm babies.
Moreover, these bacteria are believed to contribute to the synthesis of essential vitamins, enhance the intestinal barrier, and inhibit the growth of pathogenic microbes. While much of the research points to positive outcomes, it is important to note that the benefits can be strain-specific, and not all effects have been universally proven across all studies or populations. More high-quality, large-scale research is needed to fully validate their efficacy and to better understand the mechanisms behind their health benefits.
Despite these uncertainties, the inclusion of Bifidobacteria in nutritional products remains a promising approach to supporting gut health and overall well-being, with a strong safety profile and a substantial history of use.
Bifidobacteria is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Scientific)
Acid Indigestion (Scientific)
Allergies (food) (Scientific)
Allergies (respiratory) (Scientific)
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Antibiotics (side effects of) (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Autoimmune Disorders (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Celiac Disease (Scientific)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Constipation (children) (Scientific)
Crohn's Disease (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Diverticulitis (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Enteritis (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Lactose Intolerance (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Liver Detoxification (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Migraine (Scientific)
Mood Swings (Scientific)
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for) (Scientific)
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (Scientific)
Stress (Scientific)
Thrush (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Vaginitis (Scientific)
Bifidobacteria is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Peyer’s patches (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
