Overview

Among the bacteria in the intestinal microbiota, Bifidobacterium infantis is one of the stars, causing a sensation thanks to its beneficial properties for the body.

Bifidobacterium infantis produces many vitamins, including vitamins B1, B2, B6, B9, B12 and vitamin C.

This gram-negative bacterium, which belongs to the actinobacteria, is particularly known for its ability to favourably modulate the balance of the microbiota.

In fact, Bifidobacterium infantis helps to reduce abdominal pain in patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Bifidobacterium infantis has also been shown to reduce anxiety in stress-induced colon hypersensitivity in in vivo studies.

In addition, this bacterium has a beneficial effect on the immune system by reducing the imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

The combination of Bifidobacterium infantis and Lactobacillus acidophilus is also effective in the treatment of diarrhoea.

What is Bifidobacterium infantis?

Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis) is a 'friendly' strain of bacteria. It's a type of lactic acid bacterium in the same group as Lactobacillus. It's naturally found in your mouth and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It helps to maintain a healthy digestive tract.

As you get older, the amount of bacteria in your body typically decreases. This can be caused by diet, stress, antibiotic use, health conditions and other reasons. Taking probiotics can help restore the bacteria in your body. Probiotics are live bacteria. They're added to some foods, medicines, supplements and other products.

There is some evidence that taking B. infantis probiotics may help to treat certain health conditions.

What does the research say?

If you have certain health conditions, taking B. infantis probiotics may help reduce your symptoms. For example, a review article published in Alimentary Pharmacology & TherapeuticsTrusted Source suggests that it may help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If you have IBS, it may help reduce abdominal pain. It may also help reduce gas and bloating.

B. infantis probiotics may also be useful in treating some other conditions. A study reported in Gut Microbes linked B. infantis probiotics with reduced levels of inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and psoriasis.

More research is needed to learn more about the potential benefits of taking B. infantis probiotics.

What are the risks?

Probiotics are generally safe for most people to take. If healthy people do experience side effects, they're usually mild. For example, common side effects include flatulence, gas and upset stomach.

In rare cases, people with underlying health problems have developed systemic infections after taking probiotics. If you have a weakened immune system or you're pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking probiotics.

B. infantis is sensitive to some commonly used antibiotics. These include ciprofloxacin, tobramycin and vancomycin. If you're currently taking antibiotics, talk to your doctor about the possible effects of taking probiotics.

Don't use probiotics to replace other medicines prescribed by your doctor.

How much can I take?

B. infantis probiotics come in different forms. You may find them in tablet, capsule or powder form. The recommended dosage depends on the product you're using. Unless otherwise advised by your doctor, follow the instructions on the product label.

Where can I find them?

Probiotic supplements are available in many drugstores and health food stores. They often contain several strains of bacteria. To find out if a product contains B. infantis, check the ingredients.

B. infantis can also be found in some foods. It's used in the production of some yoghurts, olives, sauerkraut, salami and cheese. It's also added to infant formula.

The takeaway

Adding B. infantis probiotics to your daily routine could help promote good gut health. Some research suggests it may relieve symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome. It may also help reduce inflammation.

You may experience side effects from taking probiotics. For most people, these side effects are mild. But it's best to talk to your doctor before taking probiotics. Always talk to your doctor before trying a new supplement.