Bifidobacterium adolescentis

Bifidobacterium adolescentis, a prominent species in the human gut microbiome, demonstrates extensive health benefits in research studies. 

Emerging research highlights its role in modulating inflammation, supporting metabolic health, and enhancing immune function. 

Notably, B. adolescentis shows promise in preventing and treating various conditions, such as necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Early administration of B. adolescentis has been particularly effective in balancing gut microbiota, reducing pro-inflammatory responses, and promoting overall gut health. 

Its ability to produce short-chain fatty acids and synthesize B vitamins further underscores its potential as a therapeutic agent. 

General Health Benefits of Bifidobacteria Spp. 

Increasingly, the benefits of Bifidobacteria for gut and overall health are demonstrated in research. While specific strains are mentioned here, many of these benefits are widely attributed to Bifidobacteria as a genus.

These benefits include preventing diarrhea, improving lactose intolerance, and enhancing immune modulation. [31.] 

They are effective in promoting colon regularity and alleviating constipation, while also preventing oral inflammations and dental caries. [5., 24.] 

‍Bifidobacteria compete with pathogens, protecting against infections and inhibiting virus replication, such as Coxsackievirus B3 and rotavirus. [3., 5., 7., 8., 31.] 

They show anticancer properties by enhancing immune response, inhibiting cancer cell growth, and altering gut conditions to prevent tumors. [5.] 

Additionally, Bifidobacteria boost immune responses, increase beneficial antibodies, and promote regulatory T cells, contributing to anti-inflammatory effects and immune balance. [5., 12.] 

They also act as psychobiotics, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and play a role in synthesizing gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is particularly beneficial for individuals with autism. [2., 5., 9., 16., 24., 33., 34., 36.] 

Moreover, Bifidobacteria facilitate the absorption of vitamins and minerals, promote bone density and repair, and enhance metabolic health by reducing fat accumulation and improving glucose tolerance. [1., 4., 5., 19., 25., 27., 31., 32.]

Specific Health Benefits Attributed to Bifidobacterium adolescentis

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects

Bifidobacterium adolescentis displays distinct anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the gut and other parts of the body. [6.] 

B. adolescentis exhibits antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage. It may also mitigate damage from hypoxic conditions in the brain. [18.]

B. adolescentis IM38 has also been shown to inhibit NF-κB activation. [5.] 

Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects [9., 15., 16.] 

Studies indicate that B. adolescentis can alleviate anxiety and depression-like phenotypes, possibly by modulating the gut microbiota-inflammation axis.

This bacterium contributes to the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps reduce stress and anxiety.

Strains of B. adolescentis have also been shown to regulate gut immune responses and microbiota composition, and to modulate the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor and stress-related cytokine expression.

Metabolism of Prebiotics and Production of Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)

B. adolescentis efficiently ferments prebiotic carbohydrates, which supports gut health. [20.]  

B. adolescentis also produces beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetate and lactate through the ‘bifid shunt’ pathway, enhancing energy metabolism. [20.] 

B. adolescentis produces acetic acid and lactic acid, which are associated with various health benefits including improved gut barrier function and reduced inflammation. [20.]

Synthesis of B Vitamins

Probiotic bacteria, especially Bifidobacterium strains like B. adolescentis, have been extensively studied for their ability to produce folate, an essential B vitamin. 

Unlike many lactobacilli, which generally cannot synthesize folate, several strains of Bifidobacterium, including B. adolescentis, can produce and release significant amounts of this vitamin, which they do via the para-aminobenzoic acid (pABA) pathway for folate production. [29.]

Enhancement of Intestinal Barrier Function 

B. adolescentis can strengthen the intestinal barrier, preventing pathogenic bacteria and toxins from entering the body. [18.] 

Antiviral Activity

Certain strains of B. adolescentis possess antiviral properties, which can help protect against viral infections including coxsackie virus. [17.]

Health Benefits of Bifidobacterium Adolescentis Supplements

Bifidobacterium adolescentis has gained attention as a potential probiotic supplement due to its numerous health benefits and natural presence in the human gut microbiome. 

Bifidobacterium adolescentis is a dominant species in the human large intestine, particularly in adults. [20.] It has been shown to provide benefit in various health conditions.

B. adolescentis Supplements in Disease

Metabolic and Obesity-Related Benefits [6.] 

One study of high-fat (HF) diet-fed rats revealed that B. adolescentis supplementation significantly reduced body weight, fat pad weight, and liver steatosis in these rats. Additionally, it improved insulin sensitivity.

Overall, B. adolescentis shows potential as a beneficial supplement to counteract obesity-related metabolic disturbances, suggesting a role in managing conditions like metabolic syndrome.

NAFLD (Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) and Steatohepatitis [21.]

Bifidobacterium adolescentis, a common gut bacterium, has been found to alleviate non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and steatohepatitis. 

In a study involving male C57BL/6J mice on a choline-deficient high-fat diet, supplementation with B. adolescentis significantly reduced liver steatosis and inflammation. This improvement was linked to preserving the gut barrier, reducing gut-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and inhibiting the hepatic TLR4/NF-κB pathway. 

Overall, B. adolescentis shows promise as a potential treatment for NAFLD by modulating gut microbiota interactions and improving FGF21 signaling.

‍Rheumatoid Arthritis [11.] 

Recent studies have explored the role of probiotics in modulating inflammation by altering gut microbiota, which is recognized as a critical factor in the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). 

Dysbiosis, or imbalance in gut microbiota, often occurs before clinical symptoms of arthritis. One study compared the effects of preventive versus therapeutic treatment with Bifidobacterium adolescentis on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in rats. [11.] 

Its results suggest that early intervention with B. adolescentis may be effective in alleviating rheumatoid arthritis by preventing dysbiosis and modulating inflammatory responses. [11. 

Coxsackie Virus Infections [17.] 

One study explored the antiviral properties of B. adolescentis SPM1605 against Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3). 

Among 13 isolates, B. adolescentis SPM1605 exhibited the most significant antiviral activity, reducing the viral RNA levels by 50% in infected cells. This strain demonstrated strain-specific antiviral effects, suggesting that B. adolescentis SPM1605 could be a promising alternative therapy for CVB3 infections.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Neonates [36.]

Bifidobacterium adolescentis has been shown to protect premature neonatal rats against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a severe gastrointestinal disorder. 

In a study, neonatal rats fed with B. adolescentis had a significantly higher survival rate and reduced incidence of NEC-like intestinal injury compared to those not given the probiotic. [36.] 

Other types of bifidobacteria have also been associated with lower incidences of necrotizing enterocolitis, especially in neonates born before 34 weeks gestation. [26.]

Available Forms of B. adolescentis Supplements

Bifidobacterium adolescentis supplements are typically available in various forms to cater to different consumer preferences and needs. 

These may include capsules, powders, and liquid formulations. Some supplements contain Bifidobacterium adolescentis as a single strain, while others combine it with other probiotic species or prebiotic fibers to enhance its effectiveness. 

Safety and Regulatory Considerations of Bifidobacterium adolescentis Supplements 

While Bifidobacterium adolescentis is generally considered safe due to its natural presence in the human gut, it's important to note that the safety and efficacy of probiotic supplements can vary depending on the specific strain and formulation. 

Regulatory standards for probiotic supplements differ across countries, and consumers should look for products that have undergone rigorous quality control and safety testing. 

It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems.

Laboratory Testing for Bifidobacterium Adolescentis

Test Type, Sample Collection and Preparation

Bifidobacteria levels are assessed in stool samples.  Stool samples may be collected from the comfort of home.  

Testing may require avoidance of certain medications and/or supplements including probiotics prior to sample collection.  It is important to consult with the ordering provider for full test preparation instructions.  

Interpretation of Test Results

Optimal Levels of Bifidobacterium adolescentis

It is important to consult with the laboratory company used for test interpretation.  

B. adolescentis levels are often reported as part of the total Bifidobacteria spp. present.

One lab company provides the following reference range for Bifidobacteria spp. levels: 6.7e7org/g [26.]

Clinical Implications of High Bifidobacterium adolescentis

High levels of Bifidobacteria in the gut microbiome are generally associated with a healthy state and favorable metabolic outcomes. 

In the setting of symptoms of dysbiosis or SIBO such as gas, bloating, and/or abdominal pain, further assessment and possible treatments should be considered.

Patients in this scenario who are using probiotics should consider stopping their probiotics. 

In rare clinical settings involving either the very young or the very elderly who also have impaired intestinal barriers and/or are immunocompromised, Bifidobacteria may become invasive and cause bacteremia. [10.] 

Low Bifidobacteria Abundance

Generally, Bifidobacteria are considered to be beneficial. Low levels of Bifidobacteria have been associated with:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) [13.] 

• Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), including: [13.] 

• Ulcerative colitis

• Crohn's disease

• Antibiotic-associated diarrhea [13.] 

• Necrotizing enterocolitis in newborns [5.]

• Atopic eczema [13.] 

• Certain types of infections, including H. pylori and C. dificile infections [13.] 

• Conditions associated with dysbiosis (imbalance in gut microbiota) [23.] 

• Obesity and metabolic disorders [5.] 

• Colorectal cancer [5.] 

• Allergies and asthma [13.] 

• Mood disorders and depression [5.] 

• Autism spectrum disorders [22.] 

Therefore, maintaining a high abundance of Bifidobacteria spp. in the gut microbiome is generally considered a favorable state, associated with better metabolic health, a lean phenotype, and a lower risk of inflammatory conditions like IBD. 

Monitoring Bifidobacteria levels may have clinical significance in assessing gut health, disease risk, and potential therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring a balanced microbiome.

Natural Ways to Optimize Microbiome Health [14.] 

A healthy diet and lifestyle are foundational for microbiome health.  

Diet and Nutrition

• Consume Diverse Foods: increase the variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes to promote microbial diversity.

• High-Fiber Diet: focus on fiber-rich foods to support the growth of beneficial bacteria.

• Fermented Foods: include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other fermented foods to introduce probiotics.

• Polyphenol-Rich Foods: consume foods high in polyphenols such as berries, green tea, dark chocolate, and red wine to stimulate beneficial bacteria growth.

• Prebiotics: incorporate prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, and bananas to nourish beneficial bacteria.

Lifestyle

• Regular Exercise: engage in consistent physical activity to enhance gut microbiota diversity and composition.

• Stress Management: practice stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to prevent microbiota dysbiosis.

Medications and Supplements

• Probiotics: consider probiotic supplements to increase beneficial bacteria in the gut.

• Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics: use antibiotics only when necessary to avoid disrupting the gut microbiome.

Environmental Factors

• Limit Artificial Sweeteners: avoid artificial sweeteners that can negatively affect gut microbiota.

• Healthy Sleep Patterns: maintain regular sleep patterns to support a balanced gut microbiome.

Hygiene Practices

• Avoid Over-Sanitization: limit the use of antibacterial soaps and sanitizers to maintain a healthy microbiota balance.

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