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Bifidobacterium lactis: The Health Benefits of Probiotics

Published August 08, 2015

Are you aware of the huge list of benefits that just one family of bacteria can provide for the human body? Bifidobacterium lactis, or B. lactis for short, is just one of the many bacterial strains found to promote overall health and well being. Whether it's supporting digestion, boosting immune health, or easing anxiety, this powerful probiotic is essential if you're wanting to experience good health. The family of lactic acid bacteria, in general, is something you're definitely going to want to learn about.

Take Care of Your Body and Mind

Beneficial microorganisms, also known as probiotics, do some pretty amazing things. Research shows probiotics may support cardiovascular function and fight depression. ^[1] ^[2] Isn't it ironic that these two prevalent conditions coincide with today's deficient consumption of probiotics? Lactic acid bacteria, like B. lactis, is found in things like sauerkraut and kimchi, but not many people are willing to consume these foods on a regular basis. Perhaps the easiest way to receive probiotics these days is through a high-quality supplement that contains a number of different probiotic strains.

Bifidobacterium Lactis: Let This Strain Work For You!

Even though there are over a dozen probiotic strains, Bifidobacterium lactis is one of the most versatile and hardest working for the human body. Similarly to other strains, this lactic acid bacteria can help fight lactose intolerance and boost the immune system. ^[3] In addition to these benefits, B. lactis may also support healthy cholesterol levels, ease ulcerative colitis, and reduce symptoms of celiac disease. ^[4] With benefits like these, you're probably more motivated to include it in your diet more than ever. Thankfully, you can find B. lactis in fermented dairy products and fermented vegetables.

Prebiotics Feed Probiotics

Probiotics and their benefits have become well known over the past few years and a must in the healthy eating conversation. What many more people are now discovering is that you need prebiotics, too. Think of prebiotics as food for probiotics. Generally speaking, dietary fiber can act as prebiotics, as can things like inulin (found in chicory root, among other foods), gum acacia, and dandelion greens.

Be Proactive About Your Health

Many people focus on what not to eat, but many people don't realize it's just as important to consider what you should be consuming daily. By incorporating probiotics into your diet, you can add extra assistance to your health. Be sure you're also consuming prebiotics in addition to probiotics, and reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals, like pesticides, that may interfere with proper probiotic development. If you need to, try supplementing with probiotics to ensure you are receiving enough.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM