Synopsis

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

Bifidobacteria are a group of beneficial bacteria commonly found in the human gut and are frequently included in probiotic supplements. Their use in supporting or treating gas and bloating has some scientific support, though the evidence is moderate rather than strong. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have examined the effects of Bifidobacteria-containing probiotics on gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating and flatulence, especially in the context of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional gastrointestinal disorders.

For example, a 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis (Zhang et al., 2020, Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics) concluded that probiotics containing Bifidobacteria can reduce symptoms of bloating and abdominal distension in IBS patients, though the effect size varies and results are not always consistent across all studies. The proposed mechanisms include modulation of gut microbiota composition, suppression of gas-producing bacteria, enhancement of gut barrier function, and reduction of low-grade inflammation.

However, most studies use combinations of Bifidobacteria with other probiotic strains, making it difficult to attribute benefits solely to Bifidobacteria. Furthermore, the strains used are often specified (e.g., Bifidobacterium infantis 35624, B. animalis DN-173 010), and evidence for unspecified Bifidobacteria is less robust. In summary, there is moderate scientific justification for the use of Bifidobacteria in managing gas and bloating, primarily based on clinical studies in populations with functional gut disorders.

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