Synopsis

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

Bifidobacterium animalis is a probiotic bacterium that has been studied for its potential to support the balance of gut microbiota and may play a role in reducing the risk of some bacterial infections, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. The evidence base for its use in treating or preventing bacterial infections is moderate, with most studies focusing on its ability to compete with pathogenic bacteria, enhance the intestinal barrier, and modulate immune responses. Randomized controlled trials have shown that certain strains (notably Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis) can reduce the incidence and duration of infectious diarrhea, including that caused by bacteria, especially in children and hospitalized patients. Some meta-analyses support the use of Bifidobacterium animalis-containing probiotics for preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea, which is often due to pathogenic bacterial overgrowth.

However, the evidence is not robust for the use of Bifidobacterium animalis as a primary treatment for acute bacterial infections outside the gut, and its effects on systemic bacterial infections remain uncertain. Most studies involve multi-strain probiotic formulations, making it difficult to attribute effects to B. animalis alone. Current scientific consensus supports its adjunctive use for maintaining gut health and possibly reducing the risk/severity of some gastrointestinal infections, but not as a stand-alone therapy for established bacterial infections.

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