Tag: Strain specific

According to the National Institutes of Health, a probiotic's benefits depend on the specific strain, dosage, and duration of treatment. A high quality probiotic is defined by far more than just a high bacteria count; it involves rigorous testing, proven viability, and research-backed strains selected for specific health effects.

Studies show that *Bifidobacterium breve* is one of the most abundant Bifidobacterium species in breastfed infants, underscoring its early importance in gut development. So, what is B Breve good for beyond infancy, and how do its benefits extend to adult digestive and immune health?

According to a 2025 review of scientific literature, while there is expanding evidence for the health benefits of certain probiotic strains, regulatory bodies like the European Commission consider the term “probiotic” an implied health claim, banning its use on many food labels. This creates significant confusion, prompting the crucial question: is probiotic a health claim?

According to a 2013 study published in the *British Journal of Nutrition*, consuming fermented milk containing the *Lactobacillus gasseri* SBT2055 strain for 12 weeks led to significant reductions in abdominal fat. This study, like others, highlights that the appropriate amount is often strain-specific and dependent on the desired health outcome.

An estimated 100 trillion microorganisms reside in the human gut, playing a crucial role in overall health. Among these, the Lactobacillus genus is one of the most well-known, with different species and strains offering unique health benefits. Understanding which Lactobacillus is best for specific health concerns is key to choosing the right probiotic supplement.

According to the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP), the benefits of probiotics are strain-specific, meaning no single product works for everyone. Therefore, determining which company's probiotic is best requires a careful, personalized approach based on your unique health goals and needs. This guide helps navigate the complex world of probiotic supplements.

While the *Enterococcus* genus includes both beneficial commensals and dangerous pathogenic species, regulatory bodies have established stringent guidelines to ensure that only specific, non-virulent *E. faecium* strains are used in commercial probiotic products. This dual nature requires a careful, strain-specific approach to safety.

The human gut microbiome is home to hundreds of bacterial species, but does this mean it's always better to have more strains in a probiotic supplement? The answer, according to current research, is not so simple.

While our body cannot produce all essential vitamins, studies show that certain gut bacteria, including some species of *Bifidobacterium*, can produce B-group vitamins. This raises a key question for many: does *Bifidobacterium* produce B vitamins, and what determines this vital function?

In 2015, approximately 3.9 million American adults used probiotics or prebiotics, a fourfold increase since 2007. The popularity of these supplements raises a key question: is a probiotic worth the money?