Synopsis

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

Bifidobacterium lactis has been investigated for its potential role in supporting or treating food allergies, with particular emphasis on early childhood allergies such as cow’s milk allergy and atopic dermatitis. The evidence base is emerging but remains limited and somewhat inconsistent.

Several studies and clinical trials have explored the effects of B. lactis, either alone or in combination with other probiotics, on allergic conditions. Some randomized controlled trials have shown that supplementation with B. lactis during infancy may help modulate the immune response, promote tolerance to allergens, and reduce the risk or severity of allergic manifestations, particularly eczema. The proposed mechanisms include enhancing gut barrier integrity, modulating the gut microbiota composition, and promoting the development of regulatory T cells, which play a role in immune tolerance.

However, systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that while there is some evidence of benefit—especially when B. lactis is combined with other probiotic strains—the results are not robust or consistent enough to make broad recommendations. Efficacy appears to be strain-specific and may depend on timing, dosage, and the population studied. Guidelines from allergy societies and pediatric organizations typically state that more research is needed before probiotics, including B. lactis, can be routinely recommended for the prevention or treatment of food allergies.

In summary, Bifidobacterium lactis has some scientific support for its use in food allergy contexts, but the quality and strength of the evidence are modest (rated 2/5), and further research is required to draw firm conclusions.

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