Background
- Bifidobacterium longum BB536 (BB536) is a Gram-positive bacterium that produces lactic and acetic acids. BB536 is a type of probiotic bacterium. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria (sometimes referred to as "friendly germs").
- The supposed health benefits of probiotics and BB536 include maintaining the health of the intestinal tract and the immune system and protecting against infection.
- At this time, research in support of the use of BB536 for allergic disorders is limited mainly to Japanese cedar pollen (JCP). Studies suggest that BB536 and other probiotics may improve bowel function and fecal characteristics. BB536 as part of infant formulas may offer small benefit.
- Further research is needed to assess the potential benefits of BB536.
References
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- Xiao, J. Z., Kondo, S., Takahashi, N., Odamaki, T., Iwabuchi, N., Miyaji, K., Iwatsuki, K., and Enomoto, T. Changes in plasma TARC levels during Japanese cedar pollen season and relationships with symptom development. Int.Arch.Allergy Immunol. 2007;144(2):123-127. View Abstract