Researchers in China tested whether a special type of helpful bacteria called Bifidobacterium could protect young children from common health problems like eczema (itchy skin rashes), respiratory infections, and stomach issues. They gave 180 children a powder containing these bacteria daily for three months, while another 180 children got a fake powder. The group that received the real bacteria had significantly fewer skin rashes and respiratory infections. The study found no harmful side effects, suggesting this bacteria supplement might be a safe way to help keep young children healthier.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether a daily powder containing helpful bacteria could prevent eczema, colds, and respiratory infections in babies and toddlers aged 0-3 years
  • Who participated: 360 healthy children between newborn and 3 years old in China, split into two equal groups of 180 each
  • Key finding: Children who took the bacteria powder had much lower rates of eczema (26% vs 67%) and respiratory infections compared to those who took a fake powder, with no serious side effects reported
  • What it means for you: This research suggests that giving young children this specific bacteria supplement daily may help reduce common childhood illnesses, though more research in different populations is needed before making it standard practice

The Research Details

This was a randomized controlled trial, which is considered one of the most reliable types of medical research. Half the children randomly received a daily powder containing 5 billion units of Bifidobacterium animalis bacteria, while the other half received an identical-looking powder with no bacteria. Neither the parents nor the researchers knew which children got the real bacteria until the study ended—this is called “double-blind” and helps prevent bias. The study lasted 6 months total: 3 months of taking the powder daily, followed by 3 months of observation without the powder.

The researchers measured several things to see if the bacteria helped: how many children developed eczema (itchy skin rashes), how many got upper respiratory infections (colds), and how many developed bronchitis. They also collected stool samples to examine what bacteria were living in the children’s guts and measured immune markers in the stool that show how the body’s defense system was working.

This design is strong because it randomly assigns children to groups, uses a placebo (fake treatment) for comparison, and keeps both parents and researchers blinded to which group each child is in. These features help ensure the results aren’t influenced by expectations or bias.

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design is important because it helps prove that any benefits come from the bacteria itself, not from parents’ expectations or other factors. By measuring actual disease rates rather than just asking parents if their children seemed healthier, the researchers got objective evidence. Looking at the gut bacteria composition and immune markers helps explain how the bacteria might be working to prevent illness.

This study has several strengths: it included a large number of children (360 total), used proper randomization, included a placebo control group, and was double-blinded. The researchers also measured multiple outcomes and looked at the biological mechanisms. However, the study was conducted only in China, so results may not apply equally to all populations. Some children dropped out during the study (24 from the treatment group and 16 from the control group), which is normal but slightly reduces the strength of the findings. The study was properly registered before it began, which is a good sign of scientific integrity.

What the Results Show

The main finding was dramatic: children who received the bacteria powder had a much lower rate of eczema compared to those who got the fake powder. Only 26% of children in the bacteria group developed eczema during the 6-month study, compared to 67% in the placebo group. This difference was very unlikely to happen by chance (P<0.01, meaning less than 1% probability it was random).

The bacteria also appeared to help prevent respiratory infections. Children taking the bacteria had a 40% rate of upper respiratory infections (common colds), compared to 21% in the placebo group. For more serious respiratory infections like bronchitis, the bacteria group had a 19% rate versus 10% in the placebo group. While these differences were smaller than for eczema, they were still statistically significant.

When researchers examined the children’s gut bacteria, they found that the bacteria powder successfully increased the levels of helpful bacteria species, particularly different types of Bifidobacterium. The powder also reduced harmful bacteria. Additionally, certain immune markers in the stool changed in ways that suggest the immune system was being regulated more effectively—not overreacting to harmless substances like allergens.

The study also measured immune proteins in stool samples. Two specific immune markers (LL-37 and HBD-2) were lower in the bacteria group after the intervention, which may indicate a more balanced immune response. This is important because overactive immune responses contribute to allergies and eczema. The study found no serious adverse events in either group, suggesting the bacteria supplement is safe for young children.

Previous research has suggested that probiotics might help prevent allergies and infections in children, but results have been mixed. This study provides stronger evidence than many previous studies because of its larger size and rigorous design. The finding that the bacteria changes gut composition and immune markers helps explain how probiotics might work, which previous studies hadn’t clearly shown. However, most previous probiotic research has been done in Europe and North America, so this Chinese study adds important information about whether results are similar in different populations.

The study was conducted only in China with Chinese children, so results may not apply equally to children in other countries with different genetics, diets, and environments. The study only lasted 6 months, so we don’t know if benefits continue longer or if repeated courses are needed. The study looked at only one specific strain of bacteria, so results may not apply to other probiotic products. Some children dropped out during the study, though the numbers were small. The study didn’t look at cost-effectiveness or compare this bacteria to other prevention methods. Additionally, the study measured disease rates but didn’t assess how severe the illnesses were when they did occur.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, giving young children (ages 0-3) a daily supplement containing Bifidobacterium animalis BLa80 at 5 billion units for 3 months appears to reduce the risk of eczema, colds, and bronchitis. However, this recommendation comes with moderate confidence because the study was done only in China. Parents interested in trying this should discuss it with their pediatrician, especially since this specific bacteria strain may not be widely available outside China. The bacteria appears safe with no serious side effects reported.

This research is most relevant to parents of healthy infants and toddlers (0-3 years old) who want to prevent common childhood illnesses, particularly those with family histories of eczema or allergies. It may be especially interesting to families in China or East Asia where this specific bacteria product is available. Pediatricians and public health officials should note these findings. However, children with serious immune system problems or those taking certain medications should consult their doctor before starting any probiotic supplement.

The study gave the bacteria for 3 months continuously, and benefits were measured during those 3 months and for 3 months after stopping. Parents should expect to give the supplement for at least 3 months to see potential benefits. The study didn’t measure how long benefits last after stopping, so it’s unclear if the protection continues indefinitely or if repeated courses are needed.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track daily probiotic supplement intake (yes/no) and monitor weekly for any signs of eczema, respiratory symptoms (cough, runny nose, fever), or digestive issues. Rate eczema severity on a simple 0-10 scale if present.
  • Set a daily reminder to give the child the probiotic powder at the same time each day (such as with breakfast). Create a simple checklist in the app to mark off each day the supplement is given, helping parents maintain consistency over the recommended 3-month period.
  • Use the app to track illness frequency and severity over 6 months (3 months taking the supplement plus 3 months after). Create monthly summaries showing number of respiratory infections, eczema flare-ups, and digestive issues. Compare trends before, during, and after supplementation to assess personal effectiveness.

This research summary is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. While this study suggests Bifidobacterium animalis BLa80 may help prevent certain childhood illnesses, you should consult with your child’s pediatrician before starting any supplement, especially if your child has a weakened immune system, is taking medications, or has any underlying health conditions. The specific bacteria strain used in this study may not be available in all countries. Results from this Chinese study may not apply equally to all populations. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for your child’s health.