Evidence supporting the use of: Bifobacterium (mixed)
For the health condition: Giardia
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Bifidobacterium (mixed strains) have been investigated for their potential to support or treat Giardia infections, primarily based on their general probiotic mechanisms rather than a long-standing traditional use. Several experimental and preclinical studies have explored the effect of Bifidobacterium species on Giardia duodenalis (also known as G. lamblia or G. intestinalis). In vitro and animal studies suggest that certain Bifidobacterium strains can inhibit the growth and adhesion of Giardia trophozoites, possibly by modulating the gut microbiota, producing antimicrobial substances, or enhancing host immune responses. For example, a 2014 study in mice (Shukla et al., "Probiotics as an effective treatment strategy in giardiasis") found that Bifidobacterium bifidum administration reduced Giardia infection severity and improved gut histology.
However, the clinical evidence in humans is limited and not conclusive. Most published work involves animal models or laboratory experiments, with only sporadic clinical trials or case reports in human subjects. The proposed mechanisms include competitive exclusion, strengthening of mucosal barriers, and stimulation of anti-Giardia immune responses. While these findings are promising, they do not yet constitute robust, high-quality evidence for recommending Bifidobacterium as a standard adjunctive treatment for giardiasis.
In summary, there is some scientific rationale and early-stage evidence (mainly preclinical) supporting the use of mixed Bifidobacterium in Giardia infections, but the overall evidence base remains weak (rating: 2/5). More rigorous human clinical trials are needed.
Other ingredients used for Giardia
barberryturmeric
goldenseal
oregano
saccharomyces boulardii
slippery elm bark
zinc
Allicin
Other health conditions supported by Bifobacterium (mixed)
Abdominal PainAllergies (food)
Allergies (respiratory)
Alzheimer's Disease
Antibiotics (side effects of)
Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Autoimmune Disorders
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Celiac Disease
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)
Cholesterol (high)
Colds (general)
Colitis
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Crohn's Disease
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Diverticulitis
Eczema
Enteritis
Fatigue
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Giardia
Gingivitis
Indigestion
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Lactose Intolerance
Leaky Gut Syndrome
Mood Swings
Multiple Sclerosis
Oral Surgery