Bifidobacterium

Bifidobacterium species or Bifidobacteria are beneficial microbes found in the human gut, fermented foods and food supplements. Bifidobacterium species or Bifidobacteria play a critical role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Here is an overview of how Bifidobacterium interacts with human health:

Digestion and nutrient absorption. Bifidobacterium supports digestion by breaking down complex carbohydrates, particularly dietary or prebiotic fibres. Bifidobacterium also enhances nutrient absorption in the intestines.¹²³
Immune regulation. Bifidobacterium interacts with cells in the gut lining, triggering and regulating healthy immune responses that help protect the body from harmful pathogens.⁴⁵⁶
Pathogen inhibition. Bifidobacterium produces natural antimicrobial substances, preventing harmful bacteria from growing and causing illness.⁷⁸
Gut barrier support. Bifidobacterium helps to maintain the integrity of the gut lining. A healthy gut lining is essential for keeping harmful substances, e.g. microbial toxins, and pathogens out of the bloodstream.⁹¹⁰¹¹
Anti-inflammatory function. An abundance of Bifidobacterium is linked to lower inflammation levels in the gut and throughout the body.¹²¹³
Cross-feeding. Bifidobacterium species ferment fibres like fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and galactooligosaccharides (GOS) into acetate, which is then used by Faecalibacterium to produce the health-promoting short-chain fatty acid butyrate. Cross-feeding contributes to microbial diversity, a marker of gut health.¹⁴¹⁵
Gut-brain connection. According to research, several Bifidobacterium species play a role in gut-brain communication, influencing mood and cognitive function.¹⁶¹⁷¹⁸¹⁹²⁰

What are the best sources of Bifidobacterium?

Apart from living in the gut, Bifidobacterium species are naturally present in breast milk and are responsible for the development of a healthy infant microbiome. Adults can boost their Bifidobacterium levels by consuming fermented dairy products like yoghurt and fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and kimchi. Sourdough starter also contains live Bifidobacterium cultures. Additionally, a range of Bifidobacterium strains can be found in probiotic supplements.²¹

What foods can Bifidobacterium feed on?

Prebiotic fibres such as inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are preferred sources of nourishment for Bifidobacterium. Foods rich in FOS include chicory root, Jerusalem artichokes, onions, garlic, bananas, and a wide variety of whole grains such as oats, rye, barley, brown rice, and whole wheat. Bifidobacterium can also thrive on galactooligosaccharides (GOS) from legumes/pulses, and resistant starch from green bananas and cooked and cooled potatoes.

Where to find Bifidobacterium in the Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test

The Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test features a general score for Bifidobacterium as a group (genus). It also provides readings for several Bifidobacterium species known to have an impact on human health, including Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium animalis. You will find your Bifidobacterium scores in the “Probiotics” report of the Chuckling Goat Microbiome Test.

Synonyms: Bifidobacteria, Bifidobacterium species, Bifidus bacteria, Bifidus probiotics, Bifidobacteriales, Bifido

Version and date: Version 1. 20th June 2023

Reviewed by: Dr Miguel Toribio-Mateas BSc (Hons) MSc DProf MRSB

Important disclaimer

The Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Handbook is an educational resource built to translate complex science into plain English. The information provided on this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Always check with your GP for interactions with medications/health conditions before changing your diet or starting to take food supplements.

References

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13
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Bifidobacterium

References

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