Bifidobacterium BB-12 Probiotic Supplement Benefits & Side Effects

Bifidobacterium BB-12 is the abbreviated version name of Bifidobacterium animalis lactis BB-12® (BB-12®). BB-12® is a registered trademark of Chr. Hansen A/S (Denmark) and has been used in dairy and infant milk products since 1985.

This probiotic is used to increase the number of bowel movements and to improve the stool consistency in treating constipation. Bifidobacterium bb-12 has a regulating effect which balances the bowel.

BB-12® also produces enzymes that breaks down undigested matter and loosens any hardened blockages within the bowel.

This probiotic produces short chain fatty acids which have a lubricating effect to make bowel movements easier. BB-12® also stimulates peristalsis (muscle contractions that push food though the intestines) and repairs the gut lining and regulates epithelial cell growth in the gut wall.

Bifidobacterium bb-12® helps to reduce incidences of upset stomach, enhances the immune system and supports bowel function. Clinical studies have also shown it reduces respiratory tract infections (RTI’s). BB-12® infant treatments reduced episodes of crying, fussiness and irritability.

Probiotics

Digestive Supplement

Gut Health

Digestion

Immune Function

How It Works:

• Supports a healthy immune system & microflora
• Promotes digestion & nutrient absoprtion
• Combats pathogenic bacteria; Improves metabolism

Dosage:

Between 1 - 10 Billion CFUs per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Bifidobacterium BB-12 Benefits for Health

Bifidobacterium BB-12 is said to support the function of the immune system and to improve resistance to colds and the flu. In studies, it has been found to enhance protection against Upper Respiratory Tract Infections and to boost the body’s natural immune system defenses.

A clinical study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research in January 2016 studied the results of BB-12® that was given in a yogurt smoothies for four weeks. The Natural Killer (white blood cell) and T cell function was assessed at baseline and after each treatment.

Incidence and severity of cold or flu infection was measured using self-reported URTI (Upper Respiratory Tract Infection) questionnaires.

Participants on probiotic treatments had elevated interleukin-2 (IL-2) (signaling molecule in the immune system) secretion and NK cell cytotoxicity. These results meant fewer days with cold symptoms.

Bifidobacterium BB-12 is also given to children to improve immunity and reduce the likelihood of developing Respiratory Tract Infections.

A clinical study published in Pediatric Research in January 2016 showed Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 reduced the risk of infections in early childhood.

55 one month old infants were assigned randomly to a probiotic group receiving the BB-12 tablet and fifty-four received a placebo. The test tablets were administered to the infants twice a day with a daily dose of BB-12 of 10 billion CFUs (colony-forming units) until the age of 2 years.

The breastfeeding habits, pacifier use, dietary habits, medications as well as any signs and symptoms of acute infections were registered in diaries by parents. A questionnaire was filled out by the trained professionals.

The result of the data from the study concluded the infants receiving the BB-12 treatment contracted fewer respiratory tract infections. Bifidobacterium BB-12 tablets were also determined to be safe for use in children and infants.

Bifidobacterium BB-12 for Inflammation

A clinical study published in European Journal of Nutrition in November 2015 showed Bifidobacterium BB-12 probiotic supplements had a potential anti-inflammatory effect in healthy adults.

Measurements were taken at the baseline and after each 4-week treatment. The peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated, and functional and phenotypic marker expression was also assessed.

The clinical study found that the BB-12 interacted with peripheral myeloid cells via Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2) (class of proteins in the innate immune system).

The percentage of CD14 (protein in innate immune system), HLA-DR (Human Leukocyte Antigen – antigen D Related) cells in peripheral blood was increased in male participants by all yogurt-containing treatments compared to baseline.

Participants who consumed a yogurt smoothie enriched with BB-12 added post-fermentation had significantly lower expression of TLR-2 (protein on encoded by the TLR2 gene) on CD14 and HLA-DR cells.

There was also a reduction in TNF-? (Tumor necrosis factor alpha) secretion from BB-12 or LPS (Lipopolysaccharides) stimulated PBMCs compared to baseline.

Bifidobacterium BB-12 for Digestive Function

A clinical study published in the British Journal of Nutrition in November 2015 showed that the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium BB-12® could improve factors related to digestive health.

Clinical results suggested that consumption of BB-12® probiotic products improves the gastrointestinal health of individuals with mild symptoms of discomfort. Subjects in the clinical study completed a diary on bowel habits as well as a questionnaire on the relief of abdominal discomfort and symptoms.

At the end of 4 weeks treatment with the probiotic strain BB-12®, there was a clinically relevant increase in defecation frequency. This suggests that regular consumption of Bifidobacterium BB-12® could help to eliminate symptoms of constipation and improve bowel regulatory.

Bifidobacterium BB-12 Side Effects

Bifidobacterium BB-12® is considered to be a safe probiotic supplement with low occurrence of side effects. In some cases, individuals may experience diarrhea, flatulence or gastrointestinal discomfort when first taking a probiotic. However, these side effects usually dissipate after a few days of use.

A clinical study published in Gut Microbes in 2015 showed BB-12 supplemented yogurt is safe and well tolerated when consumed by healthy adults also taking a 10-day course of antibiotics respiratory infections.

Probiotics should not be taken by those with impaired immune systems, those with open surgical wounds or those using a catheter. People with SBS (Short Bowel Syndrome) should also avoid probiotics including Bifidobacterium BB-12®.

Probiotics can interact with antibiotic drugs in the gastrointestinal tract. They should be taken at least two hours apart to prevent any interactions.

Bifidobacterium bb-12 is used in the treatment of infants. Its safety for use by pregnant women is unknown and should be avoided unless otherwise directed by a medical care professional.

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