Bifidobacterium breve is a type of beneficial bacteria found naturally within the human gut. It is recognized as a probiotic, meaning it contributes positively to the health of its host and supports overall well-being in the intestinal environment.
Understanding Bifidobacterium breve
Bifidobacterium breve is a Gram-positive, anaerobic, rod-shaped organism that does not move independently. It belongs to the Bifidobacterium genus, known for its symbiotic relationship with humans.
This species is particularly prevalent in the gut of infants, especially those who are breastfed. It can also be isolated from human breast milk. Its natural habitat is the human gastrointestinal tract, where it thrives in environments with little to no oxygen, such as the large intestine.
Key Health Contributions
Bifidobacterium breve contributes to maintaining a healthy gut environment. It supports digestion and nutrient absorption within the intestines. The bacterium also helps strengthen the gut barrier function, which is important for preventing harmful substances from passing into the bloodstream.
This beneficial bacterium produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetate and lactate. These SCFAs nourish gut cells and contribute to lowering the pH of the gut, which can inhibit the growth of less desirable bacteria. Bifidobacterium breve can also help suppress the proliferation of certain harmful bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Clostridium difficile.
Beyond gut health, B. breve interacts with the immune system. It has shown an ability to enhance antibody production and activate immune cells. Research indicates it can also reduce pro-inflammatory markers.
Studies have explored the potential benefits of B. breve in various areas, especially in infant health. This includes its role in reducing symptoms of colic and diarrhea, and its potential in protecting preterm infants against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Other areas of investigation include its potential role in managing symptoms of certain allergies, such as eczema and allergic rhinitis. It has also been studied in relation to skin health through the gut-skin axis and its possible influence on stress and mood via the gut-brain axis. It is recognized that the benefits of probiotics can be strain-specific, with strains like Bifidobacterium breve M-16V, BR03, and B-3 being subjects of ongoing research.
How to Incorporate Bifidobacterium breve
The most direct approach to increasing the intake of specific Bifidobacterium breve strains is through targeted probiotic supplements. These supplements often specify the exact strain, such as Bifidobacterium breve M-16V or BR03, which is important as benefits may vary by strain. Supplements are typically available in forms like capsules or powders.
General guidance for adults suggests doses of up to 20 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) daily for periods up to one year. For children, typical dosages range from 200 million to 2 billion CFUs daily for up to eight weeks. It is advisable to follow the specific instructions provided on product labels, as dosage and storage requirements, such as refrigeration, can differ.
Before starting any new supplement, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking other medications. Some people might experience mild and temporary side effects, such as gas or bloating, when first introducing probiotics. While some fermented foods contain Bifidobacterium, B. breve is generally not found in significant amounts in typical fermented foods compared to concentrated probiotic supplements.