Featuring Multiple Live Strains in Dr Ohhira’s Probiotics

Bifidobacterium breve is considered one of the most beneficial species of friendly bacteria in humans. Some of its health benefits are due to its strong production of both acetic ⁱ and lactic acid ⁱⁱ, which are short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) known to promote GI health. Bifidobacterium breve is found in high concentrations in the colon of breast-fed infants.ⁱⁱⁱ In infants, Bifidobacterium breve has been shown to protect against loose stools. ^iv

Bifidobacterium breve has been shown to provide strong anti-allergy benefits and to help with inflammation. One study reported that Bifidobacterium breve’s anti-inflammatory activity was so vigorous that its benefits were comparable to budesonide’s asthma medication.^v In a human clinical trial, Bifidobacterium breve significantly reduced the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.^vi

Infants get their initial exposure to bifidobacteria from the mother’s vaginal microbiome during normal vaginal delivery. Bifidobacterium infantis (B. Infantis) is the most abundant species of probiotic bacteria that inhabit the intestinal tract of breastfed infants. The superior effectiveness of B. Infantis at colonizing the GI tract of breastfed infants is because it is more effective than all other strains of bacteria at metabolizing the human milk oligosaccharide (HMOs) in breast milk.

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are a diverse group of more than 200 sugars that comprise a large portion of human breast milk. Humans cannot digest HMOs; hence, HMOs do not provide any nutritional value to infants.

B. infantis contains genes that enable it to metabolize human milk HMOs effectively. This results in the production of several postbiotic metabolites that are classified as short-chain fatty acids. These metabolites provide anti-inflammatory activity and play important roles in developing the infant’s immune system.

B. infantis M63 is commonly used in infant feeding formulas, either alone or in combination with other strains. Studies have reported that infants receiving B. infantis have lower rates of colic, asthma, and allergies.

Bifidobacterium longum is one of the most predominant species of bifidobacteria present in the intestine of infants and adults. Bifidobacterium longum BB536 is a strain that was initially isolated from the intestinal tract of a healthy breast-fed infant in 1969. Since its discovery, B. longum BB536 has been a multi-functioning strain of probiotic bacteria that provides significant benefits such as balancing sensitivities to seasonal challenges, controlling levels of harmful bacteria in the GI tract, reducing intestinal discomfort, enhancing immune function, and improving intestinal barrier function. ^i,ii

The benefits of B. longum BB536 have resulted in its widespread use in various milk-based drinks, yogurt, infant formulas, and nutritional supplement products. It has been marketed in over 30 countries for over 40 years.

B. longum BB536 has been recognized as one of the most effective probiotic bacteria strains for improving gastrointestinal conditions for decades. Multiple studies have reported that it is helpful in maintaining regularity.ⁱⁱⁱ

Nitrates and nitrosamines are preservatives commonly added to processed meat products, associated with an increased risk of numerous health problems in humans. B. longum BB536 can metabolize nitrates and nitrosamines, reducing the health risks of ingesting these food preservatives.^iv,v

Another attribute of B. longum BB536 is its ability to help inhibit the growth of several undesirable bacterial strains, such as H. pylori, E. coli, Salmonella typhi, and candida, to name a few. One of the mechanisms is that BB536 prevents pathogens from adhering to the lining of the GI tract, which prevents them from colonizing and proliferating.^vi Other studies have reported that B. longum BB536 improves overall microbial balance and diversity in the gut microbiome. Because so many people struggle with an imbalance in their intestinal microbiomes, introducing positive probiotic strains like B. longum BB536 helps improve overall human health.^vii

The health benefits attributed to Bifidobacterium longum BB536 may be due to the postbiotic metabolites it produces. It was recently reported that supplementation with B. longum BB356 significantly increases fecal levels of pimelate.^viii

Pimelate is a precursor of the B-vitamin biotin. Biotin affects glucose and lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, blood pressure, reproduction, and immunity.^ix

Butyrate is the primary energy source for cells in the lining of the colon (colonocytes). It also regulates the production of tight junction proteins, which means it plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Butyrate also has anti-inflammatory properties, and it assists with gut motility.^x

In summary, Bifidobacterium longum BB536 has a long-standing track record of safety and efficacy. It is a human strain of probiotic bacteria that provides numerous health benefits for humans. Many of its health benefits can be attributed to its key postbiotic metabolites, pimelate and butyrate.

Enterococcus faecalis TH10 (referred to as TH10) is a proprietary strain of bacteria that Dr. Ohhira discovered in the Malaysian fermented food tempeh. Enterococcus faecalis TH10 has also shown vigorous antibacterial activity against many human pathogens. Probiotic bacteria that produce compounds that kill or suppress the growth of pathogens are called antimicrobial peptides or AMPs.
 
After discovering this potent strain of probiotic bacteria, Dr. Ohhira conducted studies that revealed its action mechanism. The TH10 strain produced a postbiotic metabolite named phenylacetic acid, a potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound effective against many pathogens, bacteria, and fungi strains.ⁱ Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is now a global health crisis. MRSA has become resistant to nearly all antibiotics. In cell culture studies, Enterococcus faecalis TH10 has a noticeable effect on MRSA.ⁱⁱ Furthermore, Enterococcus faecalis TH10 is effective against E. coli 0-157, which is the bacteria that most commonly causes severe food poisoning.ⁱⁱⁱ
 
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are essential to the human immune system. These naturally produced postbiotic metabolites help the body fight against pathogens. Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics contain Enterococcus faecalis TH10 and its postbiotic metabolite phenylacetic acid, made during the multi-year fermentation. This explains why taking Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics is an excellent way to support your immune system.

Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 is a strain of probiotic bacteria used worldwide because of its well-documented health benefits.
 
Several studies have reported that L. acidophilus La-14 enhances the body’s immune system to prevent illnesses in animals and humans. ⁱ,ⁱⁱ One of the mechanisms of its immune-enhancing effect is due to a postbiotic metabolite it produces that has natural antibiotic activity against several pathogens.ⁱⁱⁱ
 
Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 is often used in vaginal products because it has been shown to have activity against vaginal bacteria and candida.^iv
 
Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 is used alone or with other probiotic strains to treat lactose intolerance. People with lactose intolerance cannot digest lactose, a sugar in milk and dairy products. Lactobacillus bacteria produce the enzyme lactase, which metabolizes lactose.^v This can be very helpful for people who have difficulty digesting milk and dairy products.^vi
 
L. acidophilus bacteria can also help lower elevated cholesterol levels, which is associated with lower cardiovascular disease risks.^vii

Lactobacillus brevis ss. brevis NBRC 3345 produces natural bacteriocins, which support a healthy immune system.

Benefits: boost immune system health, support heart health, encourage a balanced mood

Lactobacillus bulgaricus is the primary strain of bacteria used in the production of yogurt, and it plays a central role in the ripening of some cheeses. Lactic acid is a postbiotic metabolite produced by Lactobacillus bulgaricus.
 
The Russian scientist Elie Metchnikoff discovered Lactobacillus bulgaricus in the late 1800s. Metchnikoff surveyed 36 European countries and found that more Bulgarians lived to the age of 100 in relatively good health than all the other countries surveyed.
 
Metchnikoff proposed that aging is caused by toxic bacteria in the gut and that lactic acid could improve health and prolong life. He attributed the longevity of Bulgarian peasants to their daily consumption of yogurt that contained what was called Bulgarian bacteria, which became known as Lactobacillus bulgaricus.
 
Metchnikoff’s training as a bacteriologist made him realize that Bulgarians’ health and longevity were partially due to their daily consumption of fermented dairy products containing Lactobacillus bacteria that produced lactic acid. Metchnikoff is now called The Father of Probiotics because he was the first scientist to realize that some bacteria are beneficial and provide health benefits.
 
Metchnikoff believed that the lactic acid produced by Lactobacillus bacteria aided digestion and detoxification in the intestinal tract, promoting better health and longevity. Subsequently, the strain of Lactobacillus bacteria found in the fermented Bulgarian dairy products was named Lactobacillus bulgaricus. In 2014, the name of Lactobacillus bulgaricus was changed to Lactobacillus delbrueckii subspecies.

Lactobacillus casei TO-A is one of the most studied species of probiotic bacteria. In addition to commonly being used in probiotic formulas, it is also frequently used in fermented milk products.
 
Extensive research in animals and humans has demonstrated the diverse health benefits of L. casei, spanning from digestive health to immune system support, weight management, and even mental health support, highlighting its potential in a wide range of health conditions.ⁱ
 
According to the WHO, diarrhea is the second leading cause of death in children under five and is a significant problem associated with antibiotic therapies. L. casei has been specifically studied since it has such a positive effect on maintaining normal bowel functioning.ⁱⁱ Numerous studies have reported that strains of L. casei help promote overall intestinal tone and health, especially during challenging conditions.ⁱⁱⁱ
 
L. casei also has a positive effect on the stomach by helping to control the growth of more harmful strains of bacteria. By helping to maintain a more positive microbiome in the gut, L. casei helps improve overall digestion from the stomach through the intestinal tract.^{iv, v}
 
Since L. casei promotes a positive balance in the microbiome^{vi, vii}, it also helps nurture the tone and health of the intestinal tract tissues. This dual action can help protect the GI tract’s lining, providing a reassuring potential for digestive health.
 
Lactobacillus casei has recently been reclassified as Lacticaseibacillus casei. However, searching for L. casei will access studies published under the old and new nomenclature.

Supports a healthy immune system and promotes nitrogen activation*.Lactobacillus fermentum is a species of probiotic bacteria found throughout the human oral and digestive tract. It also occurs naturally in fermented milk products and vegetable products.

The effectiveness of Lactobacillus fermentum bacteria in enhancing immune function and promoting upper respiratory and gastrointestinal health is well-documented, providing a reassuring testament to its health benefits.  

L. fermentum strains have also been shown to produce a diverse range of potent antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). These compounds are natural antibiotics that rebalance the microbiome in the intestinal tract. Because they control the growth of bacteria that can cause spoilage, antimicrobial peptides also play an essential role in food preservation.

Like other species of Lactobacillus bacteria, L. fermentum ferments dietary fibers to produce short-chain fatty acids, including propionic, acetic, and butyric acids. These weakly acidic compounds are essential to gut microbiome ecosystem regulators and inhibit harmful bacteria growth.

Prolonged episodes of intense exercise are known to weaken the immune system. In a study with elite athletes (long-distance runners and competitive cyclists), L. fermentum bacteria significantly supported upper respiratory health after prolonged intense exercise.

With its wide range of health benefits, Lactobacillus fermentum is a versatile tool commonly used in food preservation, commercial probiotic formulations, and even infant formulas, instilling confidence in its diverse applications.

Lactobacillus helveticus ss. Jagurti NBRC 3809 is a species of probiotic bacteria commonly used to enhance the flavor and texture of fermented milk and dairy products.
 
L. helveticus produces lactic acid, which is well known to promote good gut health. Various strains of L. helveticus also produce small peptides (chains of amino acids). These compounds are essential to our immune system because they naturally suppress the growth of potentially harmful bacteria without harming beneficial probiotic bacteria.ⁱ
 
Many people have difficulty metabolizing lactose, a type of sugar present in milk. L. helveticus can help these people because these strains of bacteria efficiently metabolize lactose to galactose.
 
Insufficient sleep is a widespread problem that is being recognized as a public health epidemic. Studies have shown that L. helveticus can improve sleep quality. For example, in a 3-week, placebo-controlled trial, elderly subjects aged 60-81 years ingested either milk containing L. helveticus or a placebo. Participants consuming the milk with L. helveticus improved their sleep and experienced fewer wake-up episodes.ⁱⁱ
 
Studies report that strains of L. helveticus bacteria provide other health benefits, such as protection against gastrointestinal infections and support for healthy immune function.ⁱⁱⁱ
 
L. helveticus bacteria are also known to produce butyrate, which provides fuel for renewing cells lining the GI tract and helps maintain the intestinal barrier’s healthy functioning.^iv

All strains of Lactobacillus plantarum bacteria produce lactic acid, which helps maintain a healthy acid/base balance in the gastrointestinal tract and suppresses the growth of harmful bacteria.
 
L. plantarum bacteria are stable at body temperature and can survive exposure to stomach acid, bile acids, and digestive enzymes in the small intestine. This impressive probiotic also plays a crucial role in detoxification by effectively binding and removing toxic metals such as cadmium, lead, and copper from the body.
 
Studies have shown that L. plantarum helps maintain healthy function in the intestinal tract. Some patients with intestinal discomfort report resolution of abdominal pain and normalization of stool frequency. It has also been shown to help maintain healthy, tight junctions in the intestinal tract’s lining.ⁱ
 
L. plantarum is also found in the skin. It produces a range of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that suppress harmful bacteria growth. ⁱⁱ Consequently, L. plantarum bacteria are increasingly being used in skin care products because they have been shown to support a healthy skin microbiome when applied topically.

Main Benefits: promotes gastrointestinal and oral health.
 
Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus is a lactic acid-producing bacterium widely used as a starter culture in the dairy industry to make cheese and yogurt.
 
S. thermophilus has also gained interest in recent years due to its human health-promoting capabilities, which include the production of short-chain fatty acids, bioactive peptides, GABA, folate, lactase, antioxidants, and the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase.^i,ii
One attribute of S. thermophilus is its ability to produce the enzyme lactase, which helps lactose-intolerant people digest milk.ⁱⁱⁱ
 
It is a species that is part of the oral microbiota in many humans; several strains are used in oral probiotic products to reduce the incidence of dental cavities and correct bad breath.^iv
 
Studies have shown that S. thermophilus bacteria produce small, biologically active peptides known as thermophiles that inhibit growth or directly kill pathogens.

Main Benefits: promotes digestive health and supports a healthy immune system.

Bacillus Coagulans is a probiotic that offers numerous health benefits, primarily improving digestive health, boosting the immune system, and alleviating symptoms of various gastrointestinal disorders.

Bacillus Coagulans is a spore-forming bacterium that produces lactic acid¹². Unlike other probiotics, it can form reproductive structures called spores, which allow it to survive harsh conditions such as high temperatures and stomach acid¹³. This unique characteristic enables B. Coagulans to reach the intestines intact, where it germinates and becomes active ⁴. The probiotic is commonly found in supplement form and is sometimes marketed under names like Lactobacillus Sporogenes or “spore-forming lactic acid bacterium”².

The primary benefits of Bacillus Coagulans include improving digestive health and enhancing the immune system¹². Studies have also indicated its potential in managing immune response, managing cholesterol levels, and even improving sports performance³⁴.

Research suggests that Bacillus Coagulans may help balance gut bacteria, promote better nutrient absorption, and support overall digestive function³⁴. It has also demonstrated antimicrobial properties, potentially inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut³. Some studies have shown that B. Coagulans can increase T cell production, which may enhance the body’s immune response to viral infections⁷.

While generally considered safe for most people, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and optimal dosages of Bacillus Coagulans²⁵. As with any supplement, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding it to your regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.