Bifidobacterium lactis

What is Bifidobacterium lactis?

Bifidobacterium lactis (B. lactis) is a probiotic bacterium belonging to the Bifidobacterium genus. It is highly resilient, allowing it to tolerate harsh gastrointestinal conditions and is therefore naturally found colonising in the human gastrointestinal tract where it plays a key role in maintaining gut health. Since its discovery, B. lactis has become one of the most widely used probiotic strains globally due to its stability, safety profile, and available supporting research.

Health Benefits:

Promotes Digestive Health

B. lactis has been shown to support the maintenance of a healthy and balanced microbiome through promoting beneficial gut flora while inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens. This gut microbiome modulatory effect is in part due to B. lactis' production of lactic acid, which lowers gut pH levels making the gut less inhabitable for unwanted pathogens.

B. lactis may also contribute to intestinal barrier function. Studies indicate that this probiotic can support normal tight junction function, which is key to healthy intestinal permeability. Tight junction function is vital to the maintenance of health and has been linked to disease prevention.

Supports Immune System Function

Research has shown that B. lactis can boost immune system function, helping to protect the body from harmful pathogens and infections. This is in part the result of B. lactis's beneficial contributions to the maintenance of a healthy digestive system, as reflected by the highly evidenced relationship between the immune system and gut health.

Contributes To Metabolic Health

B. lactis may also support metabolic health with research indicating that this probiotic may have anti-obesity activity. One study found evidence that suggests treatment with B. lactis could improve glucose tolerance and reduce fat accumulation in mice through enhanced insulin sensitivity.

Typical Use:

B. lactis is often used as an ingredient within capsule and powder form probiotic supplements due to its extensively researched benefits for digestive health. Alongside use in single strain probiotics, B. lactis is also often incorporated into multi-strain formulations alongside other probiotics to provide synergistic effects.

Beyond its use in supplements, B. lactis is regularly found in functional foods (such as yoghurts, cheeses and fermented drinks) to support gastrointestinal health and modulate the immune system.