Bifidobacterium breve is a beneficial probiotic bacterium that naturally inhabits the human gut, especially in infants, where it plays a key role in early immune development and digestion (Turroni et al., 2014). It helps break down complex carbohydrates and plant fibres, producing short-chain fatty acids like acetate and lactate, which nourish gut cells and help reduce inflammation (O’Callaghan & van Sinderen, 2016).

This strain has been linked to multiple health benefits, including supporting the immune system, reducing gastrointestinal discomfort, and potentially improving skin conditions like eczema in infants (Guglielmetti et al., 2011). Due to these effects, B. breve is commonly used in probiotic supplements and infant formulas aimed at promoting gut and immune health from an early age.

✔ What it is: A probiotic bacterium found naturally in the gut, especially in infants and young children (Turroni et al., 2014).

✔ Digestive support: Helps break down plant fibres and complex carbohydrates, producing short-chain fatty acids that nourish the gut lining (O’Callaghan & van Sinderen, 2016).

✔ Immune-boosting: Plays a key role in early immune system development and supports immune responses throughout life (Guglielmetti et al., 2011).

✔ Anti-inflammatory: Known for reducing gut inflammation and soothing digestive discomfort.

✔ Allergy support: Associated with lowering the risk of allergies and improving conditions like eczema in infants.

✔ Supplement form: Commonly included in infant formulas and probiotic blends aimed at gut and immune health.

✔ Gut barrier protection: Helps strengthen the intestinal lining and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Bifidobacterium breve helps safeguard your gut health by improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and strengthening your gut lining. It breaks down complex carbs and plant fibres into short-chain fatty acids like acetate, which nourish gut cells and support a healthy environment in the intestines (O’Callaghan & van Sinderen, 2016). This probiotic also helps protect against harmful microbes by competing for space and resources, while supporting the immune system’s ability to fight infections (Turroni et al., 2014).

In infants, B. breve has been shown to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and support the development of a balanced gut microbiome (Guglielmetti et al., 2011). These protective effects continue into adulthood, making it a valuable ally in maintaining digestive wellness and preventing gut-related discomforts.

Low levels of Bifidobacterium breve have been linked to a range of health concerns. When B. breve is depleted, people may experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea due to a reduction in fibre fermentation and short-chain fatty acid production (O’Callaghan & van Sinderen, 2016). This imbalance can also lead to increased intestinal inflammation, which contributes to disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (Turroni et al., 2014).

Infants and young children with low B. breve levels may have an increased risk of allergies and eczema, as this strain helps regulate immune development and reduce hypersensitivity (Guglielmetti et al., 2011). Additionally, decreasing levels of B. breve may impair immune defences, making individuals more susceptible to infections and inflammatory conditions.

Boost your Bifidobacterium breve levels naturally and support your gut health:

✔ Eat more prebiotic-rich foods – Foods like oats, bananas, onions, garlic, and asparagus feed beneficial bacteria like B. breve, helping them grow (O’Callaghan & van Sinderen, 2016).

✔ Add fermented foods – Include yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and miso, which support a diverse gut microbiome.

✔ Consider a targeted probiotic – Choose supplements that specifically contain Bifidobacterium breve, especially if you’ve taken antibiotics or have digestive issues.

✔ Avoid highly processed foods – Diets high in sugar and refined carbs can harm beneficial bacteria and allow harmful strains to dominate.

✔ Support your gut with fibre – Fibre from legumes, whole grains, and veggies helps keep your microbiome balanced.

✔ Manage stress and sleep well – Chronic stress and poor sleep can disrupt your gut microbiota, including B. breve.

Bifidobacterium breve is increasingly recognised for its ability to help prevent a variety of diseases through its impact on gut, immune, and metabolic health. This strain supports gut barrier function and modulates inflammation, making it beneficial in reducing the risk of allergic diseases, especially in infants and children (Nocerino et al., 2019). Supplementation with B. breve has been shown to reduce symptoms of eczema and improve skin health by rebalancing immune responses.

In adults, B. breve shows promise in preventing or managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), obesity, and type 2 diabetes by lowering gut inflammation and improving microbiota composition (Duranti et al., 2022). It also supports mental well-being through the gut–brain axis and may play a role in protecting against neuroinflammation.

Maintaining adequate levels of Bifidobacterium breve through diet or supplementation could be a proactive way to support long-term health and resilience to chronic disease.