Bifidobacterium breve

‍Bifidobacterium breve (B. breve) is a probiotic bacterium that plays a crucial role in promoting gut health and immune function, especially in infants. 

As a dominant species in the gut of breast-fed infants, B. breve enhances the intestinal barrier, produces beneficial metabolites like short-chain fatty acids, and modulates immune responses by upregulating anti-inflammatory molecules. 

Its therapeutic benefits include treating pediatric conditions such as diarrhea, colic, celiac disease, obesity, allergies, and infections in preterm newborns, making it an essential component of pediatric health management.

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. [32.] 

They are effective in promoting colon regularity and alleviating constipation, while also preventing oral inflammations and dental caries. [7., 24.] 

‍Bifidobacteria compete with pathogens, protecting against infections and inhibiting virus replication, such as Coxsackievirus B3 and rotavirus. [3., 7., 8., 9., 32.] 

They show anticancer properties by enhancing immune response, inhibiting cancer cell growth, and altering gut conditions to prevent tumors. [7.] 

Additionally, Bifidobacteria boost immune responses, increase beneficial antibodies, and promote regulatory T cells, contributing to anti-inflammatory effects and immune balance. [7., 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., 7., 10., 16., 20., 34., 35., 37.] 

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., 5., 7., 17., 25., 27., 32., 33.] 

Specific Health Benefits Attributed to Bifidobacterium breve

Digestive Health 

Bifidobacterium breve (B. breve) has demonstrated significant positive effects on gut health. 

It regulates the gut microbiota, enhancing beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful pathogens. [19., 36.]

B. breve contributes to gut homeostasis by increasing intestinal barrier function, supporting the immune system, and producing beneficial metabolites like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). [19.]

B. breve CNCM I-5644 effectively improved intestinal permeability, reduced proinflammatory markers, and restored gut barrier function in two IBS murine models, suggesting its potential in alleviating IBS symptoms by enhancing intestinal barrier integrity. [36.]

Immune System Support

In one study, B. breve significantly modified the expression of 12 inflammation-related genes, notably upregulating C3 and CXCL6, while down regulating IL10 and IL13. [31.]

It increased C3a protein levels and enhanced cytokeratin-8, indicating a stronger epithelial barrier. [31.]

These findings suggest that B. breve IPLA20004 can support immune function and enhance intestinal barrier integrity, potentially providing therapeutic benefits for gut health.

Infant Health

B. breve is the dominant species in the gut of breastfed infants. 

Bifidobacterium breve is important in gut health and immune modulation. It has antimicrobial properties, lacks antibiotic resistance, and is non-cytotoxic. 

B. breve supports immune function and the intestinal barrier, showing promise in treating pediatric diseases like diarrhea, colic, celiac disease, obesity, allergies, and infections in preterm infants. [6.]

Bifidobacterium breve Benefits in Human Health and Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Support

Some Bifidobacterium breve strains effectively repair intestinal damage caused by colitis in animal models. [18., 23.] 

They do so via multiple mechanisms including repairing intestinal barrier integrity, reducing inflammatory cytokines, and increasing production of short-chain fatty acids. [18., 23.]

Helicobacter pylori Treatment [29.] 

Probiotics, including Bifidobacterium breve, are showing promise as part of a treatment strategy for managing H. pylori infections. 

Their ability to enhance mucosal defenses, outcompete pathogens, secrete antimicrobials, and modulate the immune system makes them a valuable addition to traditional treatments. 

Further research is needed to standardize probiotic formulations and dosages to maximize their therapeutic efficacy, although B. breve is being explored as a treatment option.

Potential Anti-Obesity Effects

Bifidobacterium breve B-3 has shown promise in reducing body fat and managing obesity. 

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 80 pre-obese adults (BMI 25-30) received either B. breve B-3 (2 × 10¹⁰ CFU/day) or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. Results indicated that those who consumed B. breve B-3 had significantly lower body fat mass and percentage compared to the placebo group at weeks 8 and 12. [21.] 

Additionally, slight improvements in triglyceride levels and HDL cholesterol were observed in the B-3 group. [21.] 

These findings suggest that B. breve B-3 can effectively reduce body fat in pre-obese individuals without adverse effects, making it a potential functional food ingredient for obesity management.

Possible Cognitive Benefits [3.] 

A study investigating the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274 (A1) demonstrated its potential in enhancing cognitive function and preventing brain atrophy in older adults with suspected mild cognitive impairment (MCI). 

In a 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 130 participants aged 65 to 88, those who received the probiotic showed significant improvements in certain cognitive functions, particularly in orientation tasks, as assessed by ADAS-Jcog and MMSE tests.

B. breve in Pediatric Disease [6.]

Bifidobacterium breve, a dominant species in the gut of breast-fed infants, is important in pediatric health. Known for its antimicrobial activity and immuno-stimulating abilities, B. breve is widely used in preventing and treating various pediatric diseases. 

It effectively combats gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and colic, and has shown promise in managing celiac disease, obesity, allergic conditions, and even neurological disorders. 

Additionally, B. breve is beneficial in preventing infections in preterm newborns and reducing the side effects of antibiotic treatments or chemotherapy. 

Laboratory Testing for Bifidobacterium breve

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 breve

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

B. breve 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 [30.]

Clinical Implications of High Bifidobacterium breve

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. [12.] 

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 [6.]

• Atopic eczema [13.] 

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

• Conditions associated with dysbiosis (imbalance in gut microbiota) [22.] 

• Obesity and metabolic disorders [7.] 

• Colorectal cancer [7.] 

• Allergies and asthma [13.] 

• Mood disorders and depression [7.] 

• Autism spectrum disorders [20.] 

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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