Probiotics introduced to body through foods, health products, and supplements have been shown to affect immune health, and knowing which strains have been studied can make a difference in how you choose to add probiotics to your diet.
Probiotics, whether they come in foods like yogurt, toothpaste, or as a supplement, are different strains of beneficial bacteria. It's important to pay attention to what strains have been studied by researchers when you're looking at taking the product for a specific condition.
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Keep in mind that the medical community isn't completely certain how probiotics work with the immune system, and,
according to Harvard Health Publications, many products that claim to boost or support your immune system have no evidence upon which to base those claims. Harvard researchers and others have found a connection between the bacteria in your gut and your immune system.
"Precisely how the bacteria interact with the immune system components isn’t known. …Unfortunately, the direct connection between taking these products and improving immune function has not yet been made," the Harvard Health Publications said. "Nor has science shown whether taking probiotics will replenish the good bacteria that get knocked out together with 'bad' bacteria when you take antibiotics."
Here are four probiotic strains that have been studied and show connections to improved immune health:
1. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
One of the most widely used and studied probiotic strains, L. rhamnosus GG has been shown to affect immune health. One study found infants given this probiotic strain immediately before and after birth had a decreased incidence of developing atopic dermatitis,
The Lancet reported. Although other studies have failed to replicate that result, this strain continues to be studied for its effect on allergies,
according to the journal "Microbial Cell Factories."
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2. Bifidobacterium animalis
In a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, a subspecies, lactis GGCC 420, of B. animalis was determined to increase cellular immune responses. Other subspecies also have been shown to be effective in increasing immune response, including lactis BB-12,
the British Journal of Nutrition reported.
3. Lactobacillus paracasei
The subspecies paracasei, L. casei 431 was also studied and showed positive immune responses in the British Journal of Nutrition.
4. Lactobacillus acidophilus
"Early studies found that L. acidophilus supplementation may affect early immune responses to allergens and vaccines. However, there is conflicting evidence. Effects on other immune disorders remain unclear,"
according to WebMD.
Consult your physician before beginning any course of treatment. There are some indications that probiotics may be harmful for people who have immune diseases,
the Mayo Clinic said.
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