5 Bifidobacterium Longum Health Benefits: Psychological, Immune And Skin

Bifidoabacterium Infantis has Psychological, Immune, Skin and Digestive health benefits. It is a Gram-positive probiotic bacterium, is found in various parts of the human body such as the vagina, gastrointestinal tract, and intestines. It plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy microbial balance.

This non-motile, anaerobic bacterium has the ability to regulate pH levels and break down sugars during fermentation. It is commonly found in popular food products like yogurts, kefir milk, sauerkraut, and kimchi.

With its diverse benefits and presence in various sources, Bifidobacterium longum is a promising microorganism for promoting digestive health and overall well-being.

I will evaluate 5 health benefits of Bifidobacterium Longum in depth below.

1. Normalizes Anxiety In Mice

Anxiety in mice refers to a state of heightened, aversive behavior and physiological responses exhibited by mice in experimental settings, resembling anxiety-like symptoms observed in humans.

A 2011 study authored by P BERCIK examined the potential anxiolytic effects of Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001, a probiotic, in a mouse model of chemical colitis and found and that the B. Longum probiotic strain normalized anxiety-like behavior through the integrity of the vagal nerve.

The study proposed that B. longum can communicate with the central nervous system by activating vagal pathways at the enteric nervous system level, which represents the connection via the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication system between the gastrointestinal tract (the gut) and the brain, allowing them to influence and interact with each other.

2. Strengthens Immunity In Infants

Immunity in infants refers to the level of protection against infectious diseases and the ability to mount an immune response, which is gradually developed as their immune system matures during the early stages of life.

A 2004 study authored by Catherine Mullié, investigated the impact of a probiotic infant formula containing Bifidobacterium Longum on the immune health of infants and found the B. Longum demonstrated a stronger immune response to poliovirus vaccination compared to those who received the placebo formula.

3. Modulates Immunity Of The Eldery

The immunity of the elderly refers to the state of the immune system in older individuals, which undergoes natural age-related changes that can result in reduced immune function, increased susceptibility to infections.

A 2013 clinical trial authored by Hiroyasu Akatsu also investigated the impact of Bifidobacterium longum BB536 on immune function and intestinal microbiota in the elderly and concluded B. Longum BB536 probiotics can modulate immune function in elders who had an average age of 81.7.

3. Manages Reactive Skin

Reactive skin refers to a condition where the skin demonstrates heightened sensitivity and reacts more readily to various triggers such as environmental factors, skincare products, or certain substances, resulting in discomfort, redness, itching, or other adverse reactions.

A 2010 study authored by Audrey Guéniche tested the benefits of Bifidobacterium longum lysate for the treatment of reactive skin and found it as a beneficial treatment for reactive skin by reducing neuron reactivity and accessibility. 

Results showed that the group using the cream experienced a significant reduction in skin sensitivity and an increase in skin resistance against physical and chemical aggression compared to the control group.

4. Prevents High Cholesterol

A 2003 clinical trial authored by J Z Xiao looked at the effects of Bifidobacterium longum strain BL1, blood lipid in rats and adult humans. The results showed that the consumption of bifidobacterium milk led to a significant reduction in serum concentrations of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides in rats, compared to control groups. 

Another 2009 human study authored by Asal Ataie-Jafari, found individuals with high cholesterol who consumed low-fat drinking yogurt prepared with the same Bifidobacterium Longum BL1 had a cholesterol-lowering effect.

5. Improves Digestive Health

Digestive health in the context of IBD conditions and intestinal barrier function refers to the optimal functioning and maintenance of the digestive system, including the integrity of the intestinal barrier, proper nutrient absorption, balanced gut microbiota, and reduced inflammation, which collectively contribute to the overall well-being and management of digestive health.

A 2021 review authored by Shunyu Yao looked at the effects of Bifidobacterium Longum on Ulcerative Colitis and Chron's Disease which are two Inflammatory Bowel Conditions and found that after colonizing the intestines B. Longum had protective effects on IBD by strengthening the intestinal barrier function.

is bifidobacterium longum the same as Bifidobacterium infantis?

Bifidobacterium Longum is not the same as Bifidobacterium Infantis despite genome sequencing data showing genetic similarities and both strains being anaerobic gram positive bacteria. B. Longum and B. Infantis do however share similar digestive health benefits for infants.

does bifidobacterium longum cause weight gain?

There is currently no evidence to suggest that Bifidobacterium Longum can cause weight gain in humans or animals. A 2021 study authored by Harriët Schellekens, found that B. longum APC1472 supplementation decreased weight gain in obese mice.

Does Bifidobacterium Longum Trigger Histamine?

A 2008 study authored by Dr. Shrabanti Dev showed that probiotic supplement containing Bifidobacterium Longum could suppress histamine signaling proving that it had an anti-allergic effect on histamine.