Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, offer health benefits to the host. These beneficial bacteria and yeasts are often similar to the microbes already present in the human body. Among the various probiotic strains available, BB-12 stands out as a well-documented option, drawing significant scientific attention due to its extensive research history.
Understanding the BB-12 Strain
BB-12 is the trademarked name for a specific strain of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis. This strain is recognized globally as one of the most thoroughly studied Bifidobacterium probiotics, with its genome sequence fully determined and published. Identified in 1983, it has since been widely incorporated into various food products and dietary supplements.
The BB-12 strain is resilient, allowing it to survive passage through the human gastrointestinal tract. Studies show its tolerance to gastric acid at a low pH of 2.5 and to bile solutions, which are normally destructive to many bacteria. This survival ability ensures live BB-12 bacteria reach the intestines, where they can exert their beneficial effects.
Key Health Applications
Digestive Health
BB-12 has a positive impact on digestive function. Clinical trials indicate that supplementing with BB-12 can promote more regular bowel movements and improve overall gut function, especially for those with infrequent defecation. One large study with over 1200 participants showed that consuming BB-12 significantly increased the odds of regular bowel movements compared to a placebo. This probiotic may influence digestion by stimulating serotonin release, a neurotransmitter in the gut that helps regulate intestinal muscle movements.
BB-12 also helps manage antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), a common side effect of antibiotic treatment that disrupts the gut microbiome. While studies on preventing AAD have shown varying results on incidence, research consistently indicates a reduction in the duration and severity of diarrhea episodes. A study found that BB-12-supplemented yogurt could protect against antibiotic-induced changes in the gut microbiome and support the recovery of microbial metabolic function.
Immune System Support
The gut houses a significant portion of the body’s immune system, and BB-12 interacts with it to modulate immune responses. Studies show BB-12 can enhance both mucosal and systemic antibody responses, including increases in vaccine-specific Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and secretory IgA levels. This suggests a role in strengthening the body’s defenses against various challenges.
BB-12 has also been associated with reduced incidence and duration of common respiratory infections. Studies in infants showed fewer reported respiratory infections with BB-12 supplementation. In college students, a combination of BB-12 and another probiotic strain significantly shortened the median duration of upper respiratory infections by two days and reduced symptom severity by 34%.
Infant Health
BB-12 supports a healthy gut microbiome in infants, particularly for formula-fed babies, helping to mimic the bacterial composition of breastfed infants. Bifidobacterium strains are naturally abundant in the guts of breastfed babies and contribute to inhibiting pathogenic bacteria.
BB-12 has also been linked to reducing excessive crying and fussiness in infants, often associated with digestive discomfort or gut bacteria imbalance. Clinical trials show infants receiving daily BB-12 experienced significantly less crying and fussing, with one study reporting an average reduction of one hour and 20 minutes per day and increased sleep time. This suggests BB-12 may help restore bacterial balance in the infant digestive system, leading to improved comfort.
Sources and Product Availability
BB-12 is widely available in various forms for daily consumption. Common sources include fortified foods like yogurts, fermented milks, and certain cheeses, which incorporate the strain during fermentation to ensure live cultures.
Dietary supplements, typically in capsules or powders, offer a concentrated dose. BB-12 is also frequently included in infant formulas. When seeking products, consumers should look for the full strain name, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, along with the trademarked designation BB-12, on the product label.
Safety Profile and Usage
BB-12 has an extensive history of safe global use since 1986. It holds Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the USA by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for infants and the general population. In Europe, Bifidobacterium animalis has held Qualified Presumption of Safety (QPS) status since 2007.
Side effects from BB-12 are rare and mild for most individuals. Some may experience temporary digestive adjustments like gas or bloating as their gut microbiome adapts. These symptoms usually subside within a few days to a couple of weeks. Dosages are measured in billions of Colony Forming Units (CFUs) per day, with studies using amounts ranging from 1 billion to 100 billion CFU/day, with no reported adverse events at the higher end.