"Bifidobacterium breve." Also known as B breve, this bacteria is anaerobic and non-motile. Its branches are rod-shaped, looking almost like a cactus in the microscopic view. Once established, B breve is unique in its ability to compete with other bacteria, due to the large variety of molecules it can digest. Some people have a great deal of this helpful bacteria, but others may need a supplement to encourage its presence.
The symbiotic relationship that humans have with bacteria is particularly important in the functioning of the colon. In medical studies, ailments such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea, allergies, gas, and irritable bowel syndrome have been linked to a patient's shortage of the B breve bacteria. The presence of B breve appears to inhibit E coli. B breve is also present in the vagina, where it helps to inhibit overproduction of candida albicans, also known as the primary cause of yeast infections in women.
The job of B breve in the digestive tract is to ferment sugars and produce lactic acid as well as acetic acid. B breve is like a champion among probiotic bacteria due to its superior ability to break down many types of food, even plant fibers that are normally considered non-digestible.
Supplementing B breve where it has become a "minority partner" can help to recapture the digestive benefits found in a healthy baby. If B breve can be encouraged in the digestive tract, the occurrence of gas, diarrhea, and bowel irritations may be reduced. Some doctors have referred to these supplements as a way of "promoting your gut health." As a partner in the digestive process, B breve comes to the table as a highly recommended worker. |