Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bifidobacterium species are probiotics that have been the focus of considerable scientific research for their potential to support and treat enteritis, particularly infectious and antibiotic-associated forms. Enteritis is inflammation of the small intestine, commonly caused by infections or disruption of the gut microbiota. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that supplementation with Bifidobacterium (often in combination with other probiotics) can reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea in children and adults with infectious enteritis, including rotavirus- and Clostridioides difficile-associated disease. The proposed mechanisms include restoration of the gut microbial balance, enhancement of mucosal barrier function, competitive exclusion of pathogens, production of antimicrobial substances, and modulation of immune responses.

Specifically, Bifidobacterium breve, B. longum, and B. infantis have shown efficacy in reducing inflammation and promoting recovery in experimental models and human studies of enteritis. However, many clinical studies use mixed probiotic formulations, making it difficult to attribute effects solely to Bifidobacterium spp. Evidence for efficacy is more robust in pediatric populations and in cases of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, while data for chronic or autoimmune enteritis (such as Crohn’s disease) remain limited and less conclusive.

Overall, the use of Bifidobacterium for enteritis is supported by moderate-quality scientific evidence, particularly for acute infectious forms, but further high-quality, strain-specific studies are needed to define optimal use and efficacy across different types of enteritis.

More about Bifidobacterium (various species)
More about Enteritis

Other ingredients used for Enteritis

Other health conditions supported by Bifidobacterium (various species)

Products containing Bifidobacterium (various species)