Danisco Probiotic Boosts Immunity in Healthy Adults

KOSICE, SlovakiaThe Danisco probiotic strain Bifidobacterium lactis Bl-04 reduced the incidence, duration and severity of upper respiratory tract illnesses in healthy, physically active adults, according to a study presented on June 15, 2011, at the International Scientific Conference on Probiotics and Prebiotics (IPC) in Kosice, Slovakia. B. lactis Bl-04 can be formulated into dietary supplements, fortified foods such as bars, and infant and toddler formula.

The study, completed by Griffith University, Queensland, Australia, and the Australian Institute of Sport, Canberra, Australia, also showed subjects who received the probiotic B. lactis Bl-04 experienced reduced chest illness severity and used less medication. Professor Allan Cripps, the lead researcher on the study and pro-vice chancellor at Griffith University, said, The study provides strong evidence for the clinical efficacy of probiotics in healthy adults and is one of the first studies of its kind to do so."

The trial enrolled 474 volunteers for a period of 150 days and reported reductions in upper respiratory tract illness and chest illness of 30 percent to 50 percent. Professor David Pyne from the Australian Institute of Sport said, The results are impressive when you consider the likely magnitude of clinical benefits to physically active individuals." According to Australian Institute of sport director, Peter Fricker, These findings, which demonstrate benefit in healthy individuals, hold promise for other groups in the population who may be more susceptible to respiratory infections such as the young and elderly."

Danisco said research indicates that physically active, healthy individuals have lower levels of common colds and respiratory illnesses than sedentary people or those undertaking prolonged intense exercise.

Preliminary findings were presented at IPC. Final analysis of the data is ongoing. Full data and more details will become available following publication of the study.

Research from earlier this year showed two other probiotic strains from Danisco (Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM [L. acidophilus NCFM®] and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 [B. lactis Bi-07])taken twice daily improved symptoms of bloating in patients with functional bowel disorders. DOI:10.1097/MCG.0b013e31820ca4d6). Researchers found reduced abdominal bloating after one month in men and women with general bowel disorders and with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).