Bifidobacterium infantis, a probiotic found in dairy products and supplements, has been linked to improved digestive health, particularly in alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women. Studies have shown it to be more effective than other probiotics and may also benefit those with inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD).
Bifidobacterium infantis, or bifantis, is a probiotic found primarily in certain dairy products and is also available in supplement form. Probiotics are often described as “friendly bacteria” as they promote overall health and fight off harmful bacteria. Like many probiotics, bifantis has been linked to digestive health, especially its ability to alleviate the effects of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women. Several double-blind human studies have been conducted with bifidobacterium infantis. A study among rats suggested that the probiotic may even help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD).
Like most probiotics, bifidobacterium infantis is found in certain types of yogurt and fermented milk products. By definition, probiotics are bacteria that are perceived to be beneficial for digestive health. In addition to dairy products, they are found in some naturally fermented foods, such as pickles. Bifantis works by producing acids to stop the growth of harmful bacteria in the colon, while also lowering the overall pH within the intestinal tract. Bifantis is also available in capsule form.
Most proponents of the use of bifidobacterium infantis cite its ability to alleviate IBS symptoms. This is a very common intestinal disorder that causes ailments such as constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. It is estimated that approximately one in five adults in the United States suffer from IBS. Bifidobacterium infantis is noted for being particularly effective in relieving IBS symptoms among women.
A study was conducted in the UK among over 300 adult women suffering from IBS in which some received bifantis and others received placebos. Those who received bifantis showed the most dramatic relief of IBS symptoms. In fact, those who received the highest doses of the bacteria showed the most significant improvements. No adverse reactions were observed in this study.
Other studies have also been carried out with bifidobacterium infantis. This bacterium has been shown by some to be much more effective than other probiotics, such as Lactobacillus salivarius. Bifantis is perceived as the only probiotic capable of covering all the symptoms of IBS, while others can only attack some symptoms.
It is possible that bifantis may also benefit those suffering from IBD. This disorder differs from IBS in its severity, as IBS is considered a functional disease and IBD is not. Those who suffer from IBD can experience anemia, internal bleeding, and severe weight loss, and suffer from conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. A study conducted among rats induced with colitis observed an anti-inflammatory effect after they were administered bifidobacterium infantis.
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