Bifidobacterium Longum
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Bifidobacterium longum is a specific species of microscopic non-pathogenic bacteria found naturally in the gastrointestinal tracts of humans as well as in most other animals. It is added to a variety of foods or dietary supplements as a probiotic due to its many health benefits. It is a gram-positive, branched rod-shaped bacterium that produces lactic acid from the fermentation of sugar in the gastrointestinal tract.
Special Precautions of Bifidobacterium Longum
Probiotics like Bifidobacterium longum are generally regarded as safe for the majority of individuals, but more research is needed to determine the safety profile for children, the elderly and individuals with a weakened immune system, according to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine. Side effects of probiotic use are rare with the most common being gastrointestinal upset, but more serious side effects could occur such as immune system modulation, changes in the metabolic activity of cells and the transfer of genetic material into host cells. Also, as dietary supplements, probiotics are not regulated by the FDA and as such, label claims concerning the amount or type of probiotic present in the supplement may not be accurate
Benefits and uses of Bifidobacterium Longum are
Bifidobacterium longum provides many health benefits as a naturally-occurring bacterium and as a probiotic.
- The lactic acid produced by the bacteria increases the acidity of the digestive tract, which helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
- to treat constipation
- reduce inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel conditions
- prevent high cholesterol levels
- reduce the development of certain allergies
- Colon Cancer : According to a study in the April 1997 issue of "Carcinogenesis," Bifidobacterium longum showed anticarcinogenic and antimutagenic properties and may help inhibit the development of colon cancer.
- it boosts and strengthens your immune system.
- Probiotic supplements are also beneficial in repopulating Bifidobacterium longum colonies in the digestive tract that have been destroyed by antibiotic use.
