What is bifidobacterium infantis?

Have you ever heard of a bacteria that’s actually good for you? It may sound weird, but there’s one particular type called bifidobacterium infantis that has been basking in the limelight due to its many health benefits. In this article, we’ll be discussing what exactly it is and how it can improve your overall well-being.

Bacteria – The Good Guys

The mere mention of bacteria usually evokes images of superbugs and epidemics, but the truth is not all bacteria are bad. Many microorganisms play an essential role in maintaining our health by protecting us from harmful pathogens and promoting proper digestion. One such bacterium that has received widespread attention recently due to its beneficial impact on human physiology is Bifidobacterium infantis, often abbreviated as B.infantis.

An Introduction to Bifidobacteria

Before delving into the specifics of B.infantis, let’s talk about bifidobacteria as a whole. These friendly organisms were first discovered by researchers at Kursk State University back in 1899! Since then, they’ve become known for their incredible diversity with over forty different species identified^[1](Now that’s impressive) They get their name because these helpful bugs appear “bifid” under a microscope when viewed lengthways (sorta like conjoined twins). Moreover, research suggests they’re most commonly found in infants’ guts around two weeks after birth.

What Makes Them Special?

Apart from functioning as probiotics which bolster digestive processes[2], studies suggest these microbes aid various pathways within host organisms towards thermogenic efficiency-which means more calories are burnt per unit time[3]. That translates into better metabolism if ingested correctly!

Sorts Of Foods And Comestibles That Host Them

We do not naturally produce bifido-bugs ourselves; we’ve got to get them from somewhere, and they arise partly due to what we consume. And not just any food can cultivate these tiny little superheroes –they require a high-fibre diet providing lots of types (edit) of prebiotics^[4] such as fibre-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, lentils and nuts.

What is Bifidobacterium Infantis?

B.infantis was first discovered over a century ago by Henry Tissier[5], who noticed the bacteria in infants’ intestines alongside its siblings bifidobacteria adolescentis, but it wasn’t until relatively recently that scientists began studying its abilities more closely.

Health Benefits

Many studies suggest that B.infantis could have specific therapeutic effects on human health for both adults and babies. According to research conducted at Baylor College Of Medicine^[6], this particular strain can strengthen natural barriers against harmful guts invaders while also combating bowel-related illness especially after exposure with antibiotics[7]. Note: Always consult your doctor before taking supplements or making changes in your medication regimens!

Boosts Immunity

One major advantage of this bug is how adept it’s at modulating our immune responses^[8](Are you hearing me?) Recent studies show that when consumed properly- through either shelf-stable probiotics or certain fermented dairy products containing the microbe – B.infantis tenants appear useful in fighting off gut inflammation (which; if spreads unnecessarily beyond bowels- say hello colitis!), thereby enhancing protection relying mainly on mucosal defences especially in newborn infants.[9]

Healthy Gut Flora Balance

Another study highlights an interesting relationship between feeding regimen induced structure alterations within healthy microbiomes indicating their important role(s): administration of breast milk favours the growth-benefitting environment where bifido-superheroes thrive better than formulae[-1]^ [11].

Overall, many benefits stemming from consumption seem tenuously linked to a disease-resistant immune system, healthy gut flora balance and even nutrient absorption. All these culminate in better performance of distal organs like the brain which is proving more connected to our tummies than we had ever thought!

How To Take Advantages Of Bifidobacterium Infantis

One easy way to enjoy the benefits of this bacterial species is by taking supplements with B.infantis as an active ingredient. These supplements can be found at many health food stores or online retailers.

Eating Fermented Foods

Alternatively, try incorporating fermented foods that contain natural strains of bifidus bacteria into your diet – think yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi! It’s vital you read labels carefully if you’re purchasing pre-made products or go for homemade recipes using whole unprocessed ingredients-fermentation only requires either salt (or vinegar) +(and?) vegetables or milk; not thickening agents [12](Be very cautious while shopping!).

Probiotic Supplements With Various Strains

Supplement form comes in all forms? From powders & tablets to gummies & liquids available worldwide within grocery outlets, supplementing makes it easier than mulching through leafy greens daily. This microbe isn’t always alone too-it may appear alongside other helpful strains such as lactobacilli species which works synergistically during digestion.[13]

Conclusion

So there you have it – B.infantis – a superhero of a bacterium that has multiple beneficial properties upon ingestion from fighting off harmful invaders via supporting/boosting host immunity [20]?], ensuring proper nutrient absorption whilst bolstering defences against inflammatory bowel diseases plus enriching structure-altering environments where they thrive throughout life^[21]. Try introducing some simple lifestyle changes that incorporate dietary binges rich in both fibre content and quality fermentation practices today replenishing populations dwindling due to modern living making yourselves soon to be superheroines!

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