Bifidus refers to a group of probiotic strains. Probiotics are digestive health-promoting live microorganisms that inhabit your gastrointestinal tract. They are often called "friendly bacteria," because they help balance your intestinal floral and benefit digestion. Probiotics are found in food such as yogurt and available as dietary supplements. A physician or dietitian can help you determine if probiotics are beneficial for you.
Gluten Digestion
Some people have a problem digesting a protein in wheat, rye and barley called gluten. This is known as celiac disease, a condition in which your immune system attacks the lining of your small intestine when you eat gluten-containing products. This can cause digestive symptoms and damage to your small bowel. According to a study published in the June, 2008 issue of the journal "Clinical and Experimental Immunology," the bifidus strain bifidobacterium lactis helped prevent gluten induced colon cell damage.
IBS and Crohn's Disease
Millions of Americans are diagnosed with digestive disorders yearly. These range from irritable bowel syndrome, which involves abdominal pain and cramping, to Crohn's disease, which affects the intestines. According to the Harvard Medical School Family Heath Guide, probiotics such as bifidus may provide relief and help improve symptoms if you have digestive disorders such as Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome.
Digestive Discomfort
You can experience digestive discomfort even if you do not have a digestive disorder. You may experience gas, uncomfortable fullness or abdominal cramps. Bifidus appears to improve digestive comfort. According to a study published in the February 2009 issue of "Journal of Digestive Diseases," participants who confirmed fermented milk containing bifidobacterium lactis reported increased digestive comfort, while those taking the placebo did not.
Safety
Probiotic supplements are not regulated by the U.S Food and Drug administration and therefore are not required to undergo testing for safety and purity of ingredients. Side effects of bifidus supplements include gas, bloating, diarrhea and increased bowel movements. Consult your doctor before taking bifidus or other probiotic supplements.
References
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine; Probiotics; April 2011
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide: Health Benefits of Taking Probiotics; September 2005
- "Journal of Digestive Diseases"; Fermented Milk Containing Bifidobacterium Lactis Dn-173 010 Improved Self-reported Digestive Comfort Amongst a General Population of Adults. a Randomized, Open-label, Controlled, Pilot Study; D. Guyonnet et al.; February 2009
- Probiotic.org: Probiotic Side Effects
- "Clinical and Experimental Immunology"; Live Probiotic Bifidobacterium Lactis Bacteria Inhibit the Toxic Effects Induced by Wheat Gliadin in Epithelial Cell Culture; K. Lindfors et al.; June 2008
