Evidence supporting the use of: Bifidobacterium infantis
For the health condition: Crohn's Disease

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Synopsis

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

Bifidobacterium infantis is a probiotic bacterium that has been studied for its potential role in supporting gut health and modulating immune responses. Its use in Crohn's Disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is justified by some scientific exploration, though the overall evidence remains limited and not yet definitive. Several small clinical studies and animal models suggest that Bifidobacterium infantis may help decrease intestinal inflammation by enhancing the gut barrier, modulating immune activity, and competing with pathogenic bacteria. For example, a randomized controlled trial (Furrie et al., 2005) using a probiotic mix containing B. infantis showed reduced inflammatory markers and improved symptoms in patients with ulcerative colitis, another form of IBD. However, direct studies in Crohn's Disease are fewer and have produced mixed results. Some mechanistic studies indicate that B. infantis can promote regulatory T-cell responses and reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, mechanisms potentially relevant to Crohn’s pathology. Despite these promising findings, large-scale, high-quality clinical trials in Crohn’s Disease are lacking, and current guidelines do not recommend B. infantis as a primary treatment. Thus, while there is a scientific basis for interest and an emerging body of supportive evidence, the strength of that evidence is modest (rated 2/5), and its use should be considered adjunctive and experimental rather than standard care.

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