Evidence supporting the use of: Bifidobacterium infantis
For the health condition: Allergies (food)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bifidobacterium infantis has been investigated for its potential role in supporting or treating food allergies, particularly in infants and young children. The scientific rationale centers around the modulation of the gut microbiota and the immune system, as altered microbiome composition is associated with increased allergy risk. Several animal studies and a limited number of human clinical trials suggest that supplementation with B. infantis may help promote immune tolerance and reduce inflammatory responses associated with allergic reactions. For example, some studies have shown that infants with higher levels of Bifidobacterium species, including B. infantis, are less likely to develop allergic diseases such as eczema and food allergies. Proposed mechanisms include strengthening the gut barrier, producing short-chain fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory effects, and influencing regulatory T cell development.

However, the evidence is still preliminary. While some randomized controlled trials have explored the use of B. infantis (often as part of a multi-strain probiotic) in reducing food allergy incidence or severity, results are mixed and sample sizes are often small. Meta-analyses generally conclude that while probiotics may have a modest benefit in allergy prevention or management, the specific effect of B. infantis is not yet clearly established. More large-scale, high-quality studies are required to confirm efficacy and determine optimal strains, doses, and treatment durations. As such, the scientific evidence supporting B. infantis for food allergies is promising but currently limited, warranting a moderate-low rating on the evidence scale.

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