Synopsis

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

Bifidobacteria is a genus of bacteria commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract, including the small intestine. Its use as a probiotic is primarily supported by scientific research, though most studies focus on its role in overall gut health rather than targeting the small intestine exclusively. Bifidobacteria are believed to support the intestinal barrier, modulate immune responses, and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Some clinical trials have demonstrated that supplementation with Bifidobacteria can reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), improve gut motility, and may help with conditions such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) by restoring a healthy microbial balance.

A 2016 review in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology highlighted that certain Bifidobacterium strains can adhere to intestinal mucosa and positively impact the small intestinal environment. Additionally, studies have shown that Bifidobacteria can help ferment carbohydrates that escape digestion in the upper gut, producing short-chain fatty acids that benefit the intestinal lining. However, most clinical evidence is moderate in quality and often combines Bifidobacteria with other probiotic strains, making it challenging to attribute effects solely to Bifidobacteria. There is a lack of large, high-quality trials specifically targeting small intestine-related outcomes, so while the scientific rationale is strong, the direct evidence is still developing.

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