Evidence supporting the use of: Bifidobacterium longum
For the health condition: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

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Synopsis

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

Bifidobacterium longum is a probiotic bacterium that has been studied for its potential benefits in gut health, including for conditions like Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). While there is no large-scale, high-quality clinical trial data directly validating its use specifically for SIBO, some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence support its role. The underlying scientific basis is that B. longum, as a commensal organism, may help restore balance to the gut microbiota, inhibit pathogenic bacteria through competitive exclusion, and modulate immune responses and inflammation in the intestinal mucosa.

Several small studies and in vitro experiments suggest that certain probiotics, including B. longum, may help reduce symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements associated with SIBO. For example, some studies have shown that multispecies probiotic formulations containing B. longum can decrease hydrogen production and improve gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with SIBO or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition with overlapping features. However, most of these studies use B. longum as part of a blend, making it difficult to isolate its individual effects.

In summary, the use of B. longum for SIBO is supported by a modest level of scientific evidence (rated 2/5), mostly based on mechanistic reasoning, indirect clinical data, and small studies. Larger, well-controlled trials are needed to establish efficacy and optimal use in SIBO management.

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