Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bifidobacterium infantis is a probiotic bacterium that has been studied for its potential effects on gut health and, by extension, mental health through the gut-brain axis. While there is a growing body of preclinical evidence (primarily animal studies) suggesting that certain strains of Bifidobacterium, including B. infantis, can influence behaviors related to anxiety and stress, the direct evidence in humans remains limited and preliminary. A few small clinical trials and pilot studies have shown that supplementation with B. infantis may modulate inflammatory markers and improve gastrointestinal symptoms, which are sometimes comorbid with anxiety disorders. However, only a handful of studies have directly examined its effects on anxiety symptoms in humans, and the results are mixed or show only modest benefit.

The rationale for using B. infantis in anxiety disorders is grounded in the concept of the gut-brain axis, whereby gut microbiota can influence brain function through immune, endocrine, and neural pathways. Some animal studies have demonstrated that B. infantis supplementation can normalize behavior and biochemical markers in models of stress-induced or genetically predisposed anxiety. Nonetheless, high-quality randomized controlled trials in humans are lacking, and existing studies often use mixed probiotic formulations rather than B. infantis alone.

In summary, while there is scientific rationale and some early-stage evidence supporting the use of B. infantis for anxiety disorders, the evidence base remains weak (rated 2/5). More rigorous clinical research is needed before B. infantis can be recommended as a treatment for anxiety disorders.

More about Bifidobacterium infantis
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Designs For Health PrebioMed™ XOS
Designs For Health ProbioMed™ Infant
Designs For Health ProbioMed Kids