Bifidobacterium infantis

Which probiotic is it in? All

Species: Bifidobacterium infantis is a friendly lactic acid bacteria found in the same group as Lactobacillus.

Location in the body: The colon, mouth and gastrointestinal tract.

This microbe produces: Gamma–Aminobutyric acid or γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter found in the brain. GABA is a naturally occurring amino acid that works as a neurotransmitter blocking or inhibiting certain brain signals and decreasing activity in the nervous system. Researchers think GAMA may make a person calm or boost your mood. It also produces Tryptophan, an essential amino acid that serves several important purposes, like nitrogen balance in adults and growth in infants.

History of Bifidobacterium infantis

Discovered by the French paediatrician, Henry Tissier.

Found in:

some yoghurts, olives, sauerkraut, salami and cheese. Also added to infant formulas.

What does this microbe do?

It is anti-inflammatory and assists in the maintenance of a healthy digestive tract. Research suggests that it is unique in its abilities to reduce intestinal inflammation. Research from the University of California suggests that this dominant bacterium is disappearing from the guts of infants in the Western world due to a rise in cesarean births adding to the increase of allergies, diabetes and obesity.

Indications

Depression, anxiety, cognition, IBS with symptoms of stomach pain, bloating and gas, chronic fatigue, psoriasis, vaginal yeast infections, urinary tract infections and lactose intolerance.