Lactose intolerance affects nearly 60% of adults worldwide, causing symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and urgency after consuming dairy. This condition arises when the body produces too little lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose sugar. Without enough lactase, undigested lactose passes into the colon, where it is fermented by microbes that generate gas and trigger discomfort.
Bifidobacterium adolescentis is a human-native microbe found in healthy guts. Unlike many probiotics, it naturally produces high levels of β-galactosidase, the same enzyme needed to digest lactose. This makes it a uniquely well-suited ally for people struggling with lactose intolerance.
By breaking down lactose directly, B. adolescentis reduces gas buildup and eases digestive discomfort. Research also shows it can improve stool regularity and reduce bathroom urgency, two of the most frustrating symptoms of lactose maldigestion.
In a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial, daily supplementation with Bifidobacterium adolescentis significantly reduced symptoms of lactose intolerance. Participants who took iVS-1 for two weeks experienced less diarrhea and fecal urgency compared to placebo, along with overall improved tolerance to dairy.
Beyond digestion, Bifidobacterium adolescentis contributes to microbiome balance by reducing harmful bacterial activity and promoting beneficial strains. This helps restore comfort, expand dietary flexibility, and support long-term gut health.
For those who want to enjoy dairy without discomfort, microbiome-based approaches like Bifidobacterium adolescentis provide a new solution beyond enzyme pills or strict avoidance. By addressing the microbial root of lactose intolerance, this probiotic offers a clinically validated, science-backed way to restore balance and improve quality of life.
Ramakrishnan M, Cross T-L, Organski AC, et al. Two-week supplementation of Bifidobacterium adolescentis iVS-1 reduces symptoms associated with lactose intolerance in lactose maldigesters. Gut Microbes Reports. 2025;2(1):2508199. doi:10.1080/29933935.2025.2508199
He T, Priebe MG, Zhong Y, et al. Effects of yogurt and bifidobacteria supplementation on the colonic microbiota in lactose-intolerant subjects. J Appl Microbiol. 2008;104(2):595–604. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2672.2007.03579.x
