Bifidobacterium bifidum
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Snapshot
Bifidobacterium bifidum is a beneficial probiotic strain that supports gut health, enhances immunity, and improves digestion by promoting a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria.
What is Bifidobacterium bifidum?
Bifidobacterium bifidum is a species of probiotic bacteria naturally found in the human gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the colon, as well as in the vaginal and oral microbiomes. It is one of the first strains to colonize a newborn’s gut and remains vital throughout life for maintaining digestive balance and supporting immune defenses.
Where It Comes From
B. bifidum is isolated from the human body and cultured for supplementation under controlled, sterile conditions. It is commonly included in multi-strain probiotic blends, fermented foods like yogurt, and gut health supplements.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Though not a nutrient itself, B. bifidum produces key beneficial compounds such as lactic acid, acetic acid, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which help maintain a low pH in the gut, inhibit harmful bacteria, and nourish the intestinal lining. It also supports the synthesis of B vitamins and enhances the body’s ability to absorb nutrients like calcium, iron, and magnesium.
Health Benefits
B. bifidum promotes digestive health by balancing intestinal flora, reducing bloating, gas, and irregularity. It supports immune function by stimulating gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and increasing resistance to pathogens. Research also suggests it helps alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), reduce inflammation, support skin health, and may improve lactose digestion.
Recommended Dosage
Effective dosages range from 1 to 10 billion CFUs (colony-forming units) daily, often as part of a probiotic blend. Higher doses may be used during or after antibiotic therapy or for managing specific digestive conditions.
How to Use It
B. bifidum can be taken in capsule, powder, or chewable form. For best results, take it on an empty stomach or between meals with water. Look for products with enteric-coated capsules or delayed-release technology to ensure survival through stomach acid.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for individuals experiencing digestive discomfort, weakened immunity, post-antibiotic recovery, or those looking to support general gut health. It’s also beneficial for infants, seniors, and anyone prone to GI distress or inflammation.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Generally safe for most people, including infants and the elderly. Those with compromised immune systems or undergoing chemotherapy should consult a healthcare provider before use. Quality and strain specificity matter—choose clinically studied strains for reliable results.
Final Thoughts
Bifidobacterium bifidum is a foundational probiotic strain for digestive and immune health. By restoring balance to the gut microbiome and supporting nutrient absorption, it offers broad benefits for wellness and vitality at all ages.
Scientific Studies
Ouwehand, A. C., et al. (2002). Probiotic and other functional microbes: From markets to mechanisms. Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 13(5), 483–487. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0958-1669(02)00358-8
Bittner, A. C., et al. (2005). Bifidobacterium bifidum affects bowel function in healthy adults: A randomized, controlled trial. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 50(5), 913–917. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-005-2633-2
Duranti, S., et al. (2017). Evaluation of the probiotic properties of human-residential Bifidobacterium bifidum strains. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 101(13), 5513–5523. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-017-8283-2
Turroni, F., et al. (2014). Bifidobacterium bifidum shapes the host immune response and gut microbiota composition. Scientific Reports, 4, 5284. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep05284