A gut bacterium sold as a probiotic. Its most dependable effect is shifting the gut community and helpful acids, mainly while it is taken. Bowel comfort, regularity, and stress show moderate, sometimes conflicting benefits; immune, inflammation, and cholesterol effects are small; brain and longevity benefits stay unproven. Low-risk and low-cost; results depend on a well-tested strain and adequate fiber. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| hs-CRP | < 1.0 mg/L | Tracks body-wide inflammation the bacterium may modestly lower |
| Fasting glucose | 75–90 mg/dL | Gauges metabolic effects seen with some strains |
| LDL cholesterol | < 100 mg/dL | Captures the small lipid changes some trials report |
| Vitamin B12 | 500–900 pg/mL | Bifidobacteria contribute to B-vitamin production in the gut |
Cadence: Baseline, then about 8–12 weeks, then every 6–12 months