Bifidobacterium lactis (bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis)
Synopsis of bifidobacterium lactis
Bifidobacterium lactis (also written as B. lactis) is a gram-positive, anaerobic, lactic acid–producing bacterium widely used as a probiotic for digestive, immune, and metabolic health. It is naturally found in the human gut, fermented dairy products, and breast milk, and is one of the most clinically researched and commercially utilized strains in both food and supplement industries.
This species is particularly well-known for its:
- Enhancement of gut microbiota balance, especially after antibiotic use
- Support of digestive health, helping relieve constipation, bloating, and irregular bowel movements
- Strengthening of the intestinal barrier, reducing leaky gut and inflammation
- Stimulation of immune responses, including increased IgA production and NK cell activity
- Support in reducing frequency and severity of respiratory infections
- Improvement in lactose digestion, making dairy products more tolerable
B. lactis is frequently found in:
- Probiotic supplements, especially multi-strain blends
- Functional foods such as yogurts, kefirs, infant formulas, and nutrition bars
- Clinical applications for IBS, IBD, traveler’s diarrhea, and immune support
Several proprietary strains (like B. lactis HN019, BB-12, and Bi-07) have been extensively studied for specific outcomes in gut motility, immune modulation, and infection resistance.
Historical Use:
While B. lactis itself was identified and researched primarily in the 20th century, the foods that naturally harbor this strain—especially fermented dairy products—have long been part of traditional diets across Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Yogurt, kefir, and cultured milk were consumed for longevity, digestion, and resilience, reflecting the health-supportive effects of their natural probiotic content.
In modern probiotic research, B. lactis emerged as one of the most adaptable and stable bifidobacteria, suitable for food processing, supplement manufacturing, and human colonization. It has since become a standard inclusion in gut health, immune support, and functional food products, praised for its safety, effectiveness, and broad applicability across age groups.
Today, Bifidobacterium lactis remains a cornerstone probiotic for supporting gut function, nutrient absorption, regularity, and immune resilience, making it one of the most reliable and widely used strains in preventive and integrative health care.
Bifidobacterium lactis is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Scientific)
Allergies (food) (Scientific)
Allergies (respiratory) (Scientific)
Antibiotics (side effects of) (Scientific)
Anxiety (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)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Diverticulitis (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Gas and Bloating (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Infection (bacterial) (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Lactose Intolerance (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Oral Surgery (Scientific)
Rhinitis (Scientific)
Rhinitis, Allergic (Scientific)
Stress (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
bifidobacterium lactis 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)
