Study: Danisco Probiotic Reduces Cold Symptoms in Healthy Subjects

According to Danisco, a recent study completed by Griffith University in Queensland, Australia, together with the Australian Institute of Sport, showed Danisco’s probiotic strain Bifidobacterium lactis BI-04 to reduce the incidence, duration, and severity of upper respiratory tract illnesses in healthy, physically active adults.

The company says that unlike previous studies, which have focused on subjects with declining immune systems, such as children or the elderly, this study instead focused on a healthy, active population. “Research indicates that physically active, healthy individuals have lower levels of common colds and respiratory illness than sedentary people or those undertaking prolonged intense exercise,” the company said.

“The study provides strong evidence for the clinical efficacy of probiotics in healthy adults and is one of the first studies of its kind to do so,” stated lead researcher Allan Cripps.

The initial results were presented in June at the International Scientific Conference on Probiotics and Prebiotics, which took place in Kosice, Slovakia. Final analysis of the data is still being performed, and publication is under consideration.

Researchers said that chest illness severity and medication use were also reduced after probiotic supplementation.

The study involved 474 volunteers and spanned 150 days. Subjects reported reductions in upper respiratory tract illness and chest illness of 30-50%.