Description
In 53 clinical trials, encompassing 8,475 subjects investigating the safety and efficacy of S. boulardii in pediatric and adult populations, 43 trials (81%) found significant protective efficacy of this probiotic. 3 Supplementation with S. boulardii is an important part of supporting GI health and strengthening the immune system. Each capsule of Saccharomyces boulardii includes 5 billion CFUs of this health-supporting, probiotic yeast.
Overview
Healthy Intestinal Barrier Function†
Healthy intestinal barrier function is a key factor in maintaining health. Within the GI tract, tightly packed intestinal cells act as a protective barrier preventing substances such as allergenic compounds, undigested food and toxins from leaking directly into the bloodstream. These represent the major barrier found within the pathway between intestinal epithelial cells. S. boulardii has been shown to improve tight junction structure ensuring that foods and nutrients from the diet are properly absorbed, while blocking the entrance of potentially harmful substances. 4
Blocking Unwanted Microbes†
The intestinal ecosystem is in a state of equilibrium when healthy species of bacteria, or probiotics, are abundant and unwanted microbial species are kept under control. Factors that can upset the balance of a healthy intestinal ecosystem include certain medications, diets high in refined and processed foods, as well as stress and lifestyle factors. S. boulardii has been shown to promote healthy microbial balance by competing against harmful bacteria. 5 Probiotics like S. boulardii can bind and eliminate unwanted organisms during normal probiotic transit and attracts unwanted organisms to the mannose component of its cell wall. 6
Healthy Immune Balance†
In addition to supporting sIgA levels and intestinal barrier function, S. boulardii boosts immune response by supporting healthy white blood cell activity. 7 A double-blind, placebo- controlled trial showed that patients given S. boulardii demonstrated an increase in sIgA levels and a subsequent decrease in C-reactive protein (an indicator of a balanced inflammatory response). The researchers of this study concluded that S. boulardii supports a healthy immune response and protects GI barrier function by maintaining a healthy inflammatory cycle in the GI tract. 8
References
- Buts JP. Twenty-five years of research on Saccharomyces boulardii trophic effects: updates and perspectives.
Dig Dis Sci 2009; 54(1):15-8. - McFarland LV. Saccharomyces boulardii is not Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Clin Infect Dis 1996;22(1): 200-1.
- McFarland LV. Systematic review and meta-analysis of saccharomyces boulardii in adult patients. World J Gastroenterol 2010;16(18): 2202-2222.
- Zanello G, Meurens F, Berri M, Salmon H. Saccharomyces boulardii effects on gastrointestinal diseases. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2009; 11(1):47-58.
- Buts JP, Corthier G, Delmee M. Saccharomyces boulardii for Clostridium difficile- Associated Enteropathies in Infants. J Ped Gastroenterol Nutr 1993; 16:419-425.
- Czerucka D, Piche T, Rampal P. Review article: yeast as probiotics- Saccharomyces boulardii. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2007; 26(6):767-78.
- Caetnao JA, Parames MT, Babo MJ, Santos A, et al. Immunopharmacological effects of Saccahromyces boulardii in healthy human volunteers. Int J Immunopharmacol 1986; 8(3):245-59.
- Ozkan TB, Sahin E, Erdemir G, Budak F. Effect of Saccharomyces boulardii in children with acute gastroenteritis and its relationship to the immune response. J Int Med Res 2007; 35(2): 201-12.
Warnings
Always be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new nutritional supplement when pregnant or nursing. For children, we recommend speaking with your child's pediatrician regarding proper dosing. Store away from children.
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