Unveiling the Probiotic Bifidobacterium Lactis HN019
Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 is a specific, clinically validated probiotic strain, not a general type of bacteria. This distinction is crucial for consumers looking for particular health outcomes, as probiotic benefits are strain-specific. While many different supplements contain Bifidobacterium species, only certain products use the patented HN019 strain, which is most often licensed from International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) under the trademarked name HOWARU® B. lactis HN019™, or from other ingredient suppliers under similar designations like Nutiani HN019™. This strain is recognized for its impressive resistance to the harsh acidic conditions of the stomach, allowing it to survive passage through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and effectively colonize the gut. Its extensive research history supports its use for targeted health benefits, including enhanced gut motility and improved immune response.
Products Containing Bifidobacterium Lactis HN019
Several reputable health supplement companies incorporate the B. lactis HN019 strain into their formulations. When searching for this specific probiotic, it is essential to read the product’s supplement facts panel to verify that the strain code “HN019” is listed. Some of the most notable products include:
- NOW Foods Clinical GI Probiotic: This supplement is formulated for daily digestive support and features a diverse blend of probiotic strains, with Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 listed as a predominant strain. It aims to support a balanced gut environment and overall GI health.
- Metagenics UltraFlora Regular: Formerly known as Bactiol® Regular, this formula explicitly features the clinically proven Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 strain. It is specifically marketed for supporting daily bowel regularity and microbiome balance, citing significant clinical trial data to back its claims.
- Prodeco Pharma PROBIOTIC+ REGULAR: This dietary supplement contains Bifidobacterium lactis (HN019™) in combination with a prebiotic fiber called Arabinogalactan to promote the balance of intestinal flora.
- HOWARU® Licensed Products: Since the strain is trademarked, it is also used in a variety of other consumer products and blends for specific demographic needs, such as HOWARU® Protect Senior for immune support in older adults.
Why Bifidobacterium Lactis HN019 is an Effective Choice
Clinical studies have explored the specific health advantages of supplementing with B. lactis HN019, going beyond the general benefits associated with probiotics. These benefits stem from the strain's robustness and specific mechanisms of action within the gut.
Improved Gut Motility and Regularity
One of the most well-documented effects of HN019 is its ability to support healthy gut motility. For individuals experiencing functional constipation, studies show that regular supplementation with B. lactis HN019 can decrease whole gut transit time and increase bowel movement frequency. This is thought to be a result of the probiotic's influence on the gut-brain-microbiota axis, possibly involving the regulation of serotonin signaling and the production of short-chain fatty acids.
Enhanced Immune Function
B. lactis HN019 has also been shown to support the immune system, particularly in vulnerable populations. In elderly subjects, studies demonstrated that supplementation with this strain enhanced aspects of cellular immunity. By helping to maintain a balanced gut microbiome, it strengthens the gut barrier and increases immune cell activity, providing a defensive advantage against potential pathogens.
Protection Against Pathogens
In both in-vitro and animal studies, B. lactis HN019 has demonstrated a protective effect against certain gastrointestinal infections, such as those caused by Salmonella typhimurium and enterohemorrhagic E. coli. The probiotic can compete with pathogens for adhesion sites on the gut lining and regulate the host's immune response to ward off infection.
Choosing a Probiotic with HN019: A Comparison
When selecting a supplement with Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, consider the following factors. Some products contain HN019 as a single, targeted strain, while others include it as part of a multi-strain blend. The intended use and formulation can differ significantly between products.
| Feature | NOW Foods Clinical GI Probiotic | Metagenics UltraFlora Regular | Prodeco Pharma PROBIOTIC+ REGULAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | General daily digestive support with a blend of strains | Bowel regularity and microbiome balance | Intestinal flora balance with probiotics and prebiotics |
| HN019 Strain Status | Predominant strain within a multi-strain blend | Single, clinically proven strain | One of the active ingredients, combined with a prebiotic |
| Additional Ingredients | Other strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus (La-14) and Streptococcus thermophilus | Vitamin D3, beta-carotene for immune support | Prebiotic fiber Arabinogalactan |
| Benefit Focus | Comprehensive gut support | Targeted regularity for adults and seniors | Synergistic effect of probiotics and prebiotics |
| Safety | Considered safe; consult a physician if pregnant or have a compromised immune system | Safe for all ages, including pregnant and breastfeeding individuals | Keep out of reach of children under 3 years old |
Finding HN019 in Foods
Unlike general probiotic strains found in yogurt or kefir, Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 is a specific, cultured strain that is not naturally present in fermented foods. These foods often contain a variety of bacteria, including other species of Bifidobacterium, but not the patented HN019 strain itself.
Therefore, to ensure consumption of this specific, clinically studied strain, you must look for supplements and fortified products that explicitly list Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 on their label. While fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut are excellent for general gut health, they are not a source of this precise strain.
Conclusion
The question of which probiotic has bifidobacterium lactis HN019? leads to a specific answer within the supplement market. The HN019 strain, also known under trademarks like HOWARU® and Nutiani, is a well-research ed probiotic ingredient primarily associated with supporting digestive regularity and immune function. Products like NOW Foods Clinical GI Probiotic and Metagenics UltraFlora Regular openly list this strain on their labels, making it easy for consumers to find. For those seeking the specific, clinically demonstrated benefits of HN019, relying on properly formulated and labeled supplements is the most reliable path. This targeted approach to supplementation can help provide specific support for digestive health and overall well-being. A crucial consideration is that the beneficial effects of probiotics are highly strain-specific, meaning you must choose products containing the exact strains clinically studied for your desired health outcome. A balanced diet rich in fiber and whole foods remains foundational to gut health, but targeted strains like HN019 can offer additional support where needed. For more information on the research behind the HN019 strain, you can review scientific literature, such as research articles on the NIH website.
