Bifidobacterium bifidum is a probiotic, or a beneficial kind of bacteria. Probiotics live inside the body, mainly in the gastrointestinal system. These good bacteria promote healthy digestion, strengthen the immune system, and work to eliminate harmful and unhealthy bacteria from the body. Low levels of probiotics in the intestines can result in many unpleasant symptoms such as abdominal bloating and cramps, yeast infections, and food sensitivities. Bifidobacterium bifidum can be added to the diet through the use of supplements or the consumption of yogurt containing live culture.
The digestive system is a complex arrangement of organs, digestive fluids, and microorganisms. The components of the human digestive system work together in the body to take in food, beverages, and nutritional supplements, and convert them into the fuel that keeps the body running smoothly. Bacteria populate the lower portion of the digestive tract, primarily accumulating in the large intestine.
Bifidobacterium bifidum is one of many bacteria found in the human body. The digestive system is home to an estimated 500 different species of bacteria, including members of the Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Clostridium, Fusobacterium, and Bacteroids families. In addition to these good bacteria, the human gut flora also includes a number of strains of yeast or fungi. Although the largest population of Bifidobacterium bifidum is located in the digestive system, lesser amounts are also found in the mouth, breast milk, and the vagina.
There are many benefits of good bacteria in the digestive system. Bifidobacterium bifidum and other probiotics assist the body in breaking down undigested carbohydrates that could otherwise not be utilized. The bacteria then turn these carbohydrates into substances called short chain fatty acids. Short chain fatty acids assist the body by reducing harmful bacteria, providing nutrients and energy, and protecting against fluid loss.
When the normal balance of gut flora is altered, or populations of good bacteria are low, it can cause illness and discomfort. A lack of probiotic activity in the intestines can result in an overgrowth or colonization of bad bacteria and yeast. The body's population of probiotics can be reduced or depleted by a poor or unhealthy diet, antibiotic usage, and diarrhea or intestinal illness. Beneficial bacteria play such an important role in digestion and immune system support, and care should be taken to strengthen the weakened gut flora. Probiotics can be added to the diet by consuming food containing active cultures, and Bifidobacterium bifidum supplements are readily available in capsule, liquid, and powder form.