Bifidobacterium animalis
Bifidobacterium animalis: A Beneficial Probiotic
Introduction Bifidobacterium animalis is a friendly bacteria that naturally inhabits the digestive tract of humans and animals. As a probiotic, it plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and overall well-being. In this article, we‘ll delve into the characteristics, associated diseases, and latest research on Bifidobacterium animalis.
Description Bifidobacterium animalis is a gram-positive, non-pathogenic bacterium that belongs to the phylum Actinobacteria. It is a rod-shaped bacterium with a characteristic "Y" or "V" shape. This unique shape helps it adhere to the intestinal lining, where it exerts its beneficial effects.
Associated Diseases Bifidobacterium animalis has been shown to have protective effects against several diseases, including:
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Studies indicate that Bifidobacterium animalis can help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn‘s disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Probiotics containing Bifidobacterium animalis have been found to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, including abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
- Allergic Diseases: Bifidobacterium animalis has been linked to reduced risk and severity of allergic diseases such as asthma, eczema, and hay fever.
Did you Know ? According to a study published in the journal Gut, individuals with high levels of Bifidobacterium animalis in their gut microbiome have a 50% reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
References
- Gibson, G. R., Hutkins, R., Sanders, M. E., Prescott, S. L., Reimer, R. A., Salminen, S. J., ... & Fornander, M. (2017). Expert consensus document: The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the definition and scope of prebiotics. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 14(8), 491-502.
- Cani, P. D., & de Vos, W. M. (2017). Next-generation beneficial microbes: The case of Akkermansia muciniphila. Frontiers in Microbiology, 8, 1765.
- International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics. (2013). Probiotics and prebiotics: A consensus statement from the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 47(10), S502-S528.
Additional Information on Latest Research In addition to its well-established benefits, recent research has shed light on the multifaceted role of Bifidobacterium animalis:
- Immune Modulation: Bifidobacterium animalis has been shown to enhance immune function and reduce the risk of infections.
- Metabolism Regulation: Studies suggest that Bifidobacterium animalis can help improve glucose tolerance and reduce body fat accumulation.
- Cognitive Health: Emerging evidence indicates that Bifidobacterium animalis may play a role in improving cognitive function and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders.
Conclusion Bifidobacterium animalis is a vital probiotic that offers numerous health benefits. Its ability to improve gut health, reduce the risk of diseases, and promote overall well-being makes it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Further research continues to unveil the multifaceted nature of Bifidobacterium animalis, highlighting its potential for even broader applications in human health.
