Synopsis

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

Bifidobacteria are a genus of probiotic bacteria commonly found in the human gut, and their use in supporting or treating thrush (oropharyngeal or vaginal candidiasis, caused by Candida species) is primarily justified by scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence. The main basis for their use lies in laboratory and small clinical studies that suggest probiotics, including Bifidobacteria, may help restore the balance of normal microbial flora, thereby inhibiting the overgrowth of Candida. Mechanisms proposed include competition for adhesion sites, production of antimicrobial substances (like organic acids), and modulation of the host immune response.

However, the specific evidence for Bifidobacteria alone (as opposed to mixed probiotic formulations that often include Lactobacillus species) is limited. Some randomized controlled trials and reviews indicate that probiotics, in general, may reduce the recurrence rate or severity of thrush, especially in women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, but these effects are usually modest and the trials often use combinations of species. Most studies demonstrating benefit use Lactobacillus strains, and the evidence for Bifidobacteria specifically is weaker and less consistent. Major clinical guidelines do not currently recommend Bifidobacteria as a standalone or first-line therapy for thrush, but they may be used as adjuncts to antifungal treatment.

In summary, there is some scientific rationale and limited clinical evidence supporting the adjunctive use of Bifidobacteria for thrush, but the quality and quantity of evidence are not strong, justifying a moderate-low score.

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