Background

Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (B. lactis) is a type of probiotic ("good" bacteria) that lives in the intestines. It produces lactic and acetic acid.

"Good" bacteria such as B. lactis can help break down food, absorb nutrients, and fight off "bad" organisms that might cause diseases. B. lactis is a subspecies of B. animalis. It's found in the human gut and used in probiotic supplements.

People use B. lactis for excessive crying in infants (colic), constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and respiratory tract infections. It is also used for dental cavities, hay fever, diarrhea, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using B. lactis for COVID-19.

Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis is sometimes listed as Bifidobacterium lactis (or B. lactis) on product labels. Don't confuse B. lactis with other probiotics, or with fermented food products such as fermented milk, kefir, or yogurt. These are not the same.

Safety Safety definitions

When taken by mouth: B. lactis is likely safe. It's been used safely alone and together with other probiotics for up to one month. Some people might experience gas and bloating from probiotics, but B. lactis seems to be well-tolerated.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if B. lactis is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: B. lactis likely safe for most children when taken by mouth for up to 8 months. It might cause diarrhea in some children. However, there isn't enough reliable information to know if B. lactis is safe for very small premature infants.

Weakened immune system: Some probiotics have caused blood infections in a small number of people with weakened immune systems. If you have a weakened immune system, talk with your healthcare provider before taking B. lactis.

Effectiveness

Dosing & administration

In adults, B. lactis has most often been taken by mouth alone or together with other probiotics in doses of up to 12.5 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) daily, for up to 6 weeks. In children, B. lactis has most often been taken by mouth alone or together with other probiotics. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

Interactions with pharmaceuticals

Antibiotic drugs

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

B. lactis is a type of friendly bacteria. Antibiotics are used to reduce harmful bacteria in the body. Taking antibiotics along with B. lactis might reduce the effects of B. lactis. To avoid this interaction, take B. lactis products at least two hours before or after antibiotics.

Interactions with herbs & supplements

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Interactions with foods

There are no known interactions with foods.