Bifidobacterium and Their Health Benefits

What is Bifido Probiotic Bacteria?

Bifidobacteria are a group of “friendly” bacteria found primarily in the colon, which is the lower end of the gastrointestinal tract. These particular bacteria support digestion, immune health and vital brain function. Bifidobacteria assist in creating a balanced intestinal environment by crowding out harmful bacteria and producing acetic and lactic acids that may help inhibit the growth of unfriendly flora.

In breastfed infants, Bifidobacterium accounts for more than 80% of all intestinal bacteria; however, as we age, that number drastically declines to make up only 3-6% of adult fecal flora.

Bifidobacteria and Immune Health

About 80% of the body’s immune system is located in the gastrointestinal tract in the form of receptor cells. Because of this prime location, what happens in the gut profoundly influences immune function, making the balance between “good” and “bad” bacteria of paramount importance.

A healthy gut contains a large, thriving population of beneficial or friendly bacteria that support immune system receptor cells. Bifidobacterium attach to cells in the intestines and colon to form a protective barrier. This barrier provides defense against toxins and germs and plays an important role in immune response. This makes the gut a significant factor in maintaining a healthy immune system. 

Bifidobacteria and Brain Function

There is a definite connection between the brain and gut. In fact, the gut contains more than 100 million neurons– nerve cells– which makes it highly sensitive, just like the brain. So much that it’s often referred to as “the little brain.” The microbes in the gut produce neuroactive compounds that connect to the brain, affecting behavior and mood.

Studies show physical, emotional or environmental stress can unquestionably have an effect on gastric discomfort, causing noticeable physical indicators that manifest around the digestive tract. 

Health Benefits of Bifidobacteria

  • Ferments a number of carbohydrates to produce acids in the colon to maintain healthy pH balance. 
  • Generates substances that improve resistance against pathogenic bacteria.
  • Capable of producing Vitamins B1, B3 and Folate.
  • Supports healthy digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.
  • Maintains healthy gastrointestinal function.
  • Supports healthy, comfortable fluid balance and healthy transit time during elimination.
  • Promotes cellular integrity and energy production.
  • Supports healthy cholesterol metabolism. 
  • Promotes healthy oxidative balance and a normal inflammatory response.
  • Supports a healthy response to environmental toxins.
  • Supports healthy skin.
  • Promotes healthy lung and sinus function.
  • Maintains healthy weight management.
  • Promotes brain derived neurotropic factor for healthy brain and nervous system function.
  • Maintains healthy electrolyte balance.
  • Supports healthy levels of short chain fatty acids to nourish the colon cells.  

Why Is It Important to Have Multiple Strains of Bifido Beneficial Bacteria?

Multiple strains of probiotics are preferred because each strain has a purpose. Each one thrives in a different part of the digestive tract and works in a different way.

Here are some examples of the function of different bifidobacterium.

Bifido Bifidum: helps your body synthesize B-complex vitamins as well as reduces the production of histamine, a chemical that causes allergic reactions.

Bifido Longum: converts sugar into lactic acid and provides additional immune system benefits by reducing constipation as well as discomfort from inflammatory bowel conditions. 

What is Bifidus 45B?

Bifidus 45B provides targeted support designed to be utilized at the appropriate colonization sites in the gut to promote healthy immune, brain and digestive function. It contains 8 different strains of bifidus bacteria and 45 billion CFUs. It also promotes vibrant brain function through healthy neurohormone balance.

The friendly bacteria undergo a freeze-drying process that keeps these live probiotics protected from the harsh acidic environment of the stomach and are therefore able to colonize at the most appropriate absorption site in the full length of the gastrointestinal tract. Freeze-drying also allows the product to be stored at room temperature. 

Along with supplemental probiotic support, check out my favorite gut nourishers, how your gut directly effects your appetite and weight, and what your microbiome does for you.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

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