Let’s get to know B. lactis HN019, and its benefits

Let’s get to know B. lactis HN019, the healthy microbe, and its benefits for the immune system and gastrointestinal tract

Author : Asst.Prof. Sayamon Sukkha
English translation by Puchita Chokcharoenying

It is undeniable that the majority of people nowadays have a strong desire for good health. Achieving good health can easily be initiated by paying attention to certain lifestyle behaviors, including regular exercise, prioritizing mental well-being, and adopting a nutritious diet. In this article, we will explore the advantages of the B. lactis HN019 probiotic product in which you might be familiar with its reputation for aiding the immune system, promoting a balanced digestive system, and alleviating symptoms associated with gastrointestinal diseases.

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that play a vital role in our body’s defense against harmful microbial infections and pathogens. These helpful microorganisms naturally exist within our bodies. We can obtain probiotics through our diet or also by directly consuming probiotic products. Probiotic products come in various strains, and it’s important to note that in order to obtain the health benefits, the products must contain specific strains that have been thoroughly studied and researched, and must be consumed in the recommended amount to maximize their effectiveness.^1,2 

Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, or simply known as B. lactis HN019, is a specific strain of probiotics that has received significant interest among researchers due to its noticeable health advantages. Typically,
B. lactis HN019 naturally resides in the gastrointestinal tract of humans. It possesses the unique ability to resist acidic conditions in the stomach and reach the small intestine which serves as an active site for
B. lactis HN019, offering beneficial effects for both the immune system and the gastrointestinal tract.³

Benefits of B. lactis HN019 on the immune system^4,5

The human body’s immune system serves as a city guard soldier, tirelessly defending against invading villains that can cause harm. Therefore, the immune system plays a crucial role in protecting humans from harmful pathogens. B. lactis HN019 aids in strengthening specific components of the immune system, particularly white blood cells such as natural killer cells (NK cells) which are responsible for eliminating virus-infected cells and responding to the formation of cancer cells (tumor cells) and the polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN cells) which serve as the first line of defense by capturing germs or foreign substances that enter the body. These essential white blood cells serve as crucial commanders in the body’s defense against various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, where the levels of both types of white blood cells tend to decrease as a person gets older.

Studies have discovered that B. lactis HN019 has the ability to enhance the activity of white blood cells, namely NK cells and PMN cells, which is particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of infections in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, especially among vulnerable individuals such as the elderly. Besides, B. lactis HN019 also contributes to overall health by supporting the production of immune-boosting substances known as cytokines, which aid in the proper functioning of the immune system.

Benefits of B. lactis HN019 on the gastrointestinal tract

Gastrointestinal tract provides the main residence for the immune system cells. As humans consume food on a daily basis, the gastrointestinal tract therefore serves as a bridge connecting between the external environment and the human body, where the immune system cells located in the intestinal tract play a key role in capturing pathogens and harmful microbes, preventing them from entering the body. Additionally, the gastrointestinal tract contains beneficial microbes that contribute to the strength and functionality of the immune system cells mentioned earlier. However, the beneficial microbes in our body can be disrupted and altered by different factors like aging, stress, or the use of antibiotics, leading to an imbalance of good microbes and potentially affecting our immunity.⁵

B. lactis HN019 probiotic plays a prominent role in balancing good microbes in the intestines by helping increase the amount of good microorganisms that may have reduced or decreased their performance due to various factors as the B. lactis HN019 enhances the growth of many good microorganisms, such as Bifidobacteria and lactobacilli³ , which will inhibit bad microorganisms.

Optimizing the microbial balance helps enhance the function of white blood cells in the immune system and leads to the absorption of beneficial food and rhythmic bowel movement. Several studies support the B. lactis HN019 probiotic for the treatment of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gas production, bloating, flatulence, air in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as the treatment for constipation.^1,6,7 In addition, one of the unique mechanisms of B. lactis HN019 is the production of short chain fatty acids to support the defense mechanism against important bad microbes in intestines.¹

In conclusion, B. lactis HN019 probiotic product is a well-researched product proven to support immune health and balance the gastrointestinal tract. That being said, if you want to take probiotic products, you can consult a doctor and pharmacist for further advice on how to use probiotic products for their health benefits.

References

1. World Gastroenterology Organisation Global Guidelines. Probiotics and prebiotics. [cited 2023 May 29]. Available from: https://www.worldgastroenterology.org/guidelines/probiotics-and-prebiotics/probiotics-and-prebiotics-english.
2. Su GL, Ko CW, Bercik P, Falck-Ytter Y, Sultan S, Weizman AV, et al. AGA Clinical practice guidelines on the role of probiotics in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. Gastroenterology. 2020 Aug;159(2):697-705.
3. Cheng J, Laitila A, Ouwehand AC. Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN019 effects on gut health: a review. Front Nutr. 2021 Dec 14;8:790561.
4. Mazziotta C, Tognon M, Martini F, Torreggiani E, Rotondo JC. probiotics mechanism of action on immune cells and beneficial effects on human health. Cells. 2023 Jan 2;12(1):184.
5. Miller LE, Lehtoranta L, Lehtinen MJ. the effect of Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019 on cellular immune function in healthy elderly subjects: systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. 2017 Feb 24;9(3):191.
6. Hungin AP, Mulligan C, Pot B, Whorwell P, Agréus L, Fracasso P, et al; European Society for Primary Care Gastroenterology. Systematic review: probiotics in the management of lower gastrointestinal symptoms in clinical practice — an evidence-based international guide. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2013 Oct;38(8):864-86.
7. Waller PA, Gopal PK, Leyer GJ, Ouwehand AC, Reifer C, Stewart ME, et al. Dose-response effect of Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 on whole gut transit time and functional gastrointestinal symptoms in adults. Scand J Gastroenterol. 2011 Sep;46(9):1057-64.

More Probiotics Articles

1. Get to know Probiotics the Helpful Microbes : https://www.zenbiohealth.com/get-to-know-probiotics-the-helpful-microbes/
2. Probiotics and Immune Enhancement : https://www.zenbiohealth.com/probiotics-and-immune-enhancement-immunity/