Saccharomyces Boulardii can be a bit of a tongue twister of a probiotic name, therefore it is often shortened to S. Boulardii, or even further to Sac B. Saccharomyces Boulardii (pronounced SAK-a-ROE-mye-SEES boo-LAR-dee-eye), or S. Boulardii is one of the most studied probiotics and possibly the oldest strain known.
It was first discovered in 1923 by Henri Boulard, a French microbiologist. He isolated and identified Saccharomyces Boulardii as a yeast strain probiotic after he observed natives of Southeast Asia chewing on the skins of lychees and mangosteens to resolve diarrhoea during a cholera epidemic. The special ingredient in this anti-diarrhoeal remedy was found to be a single yeast strain and Henri Boulard called it Saccharomyces Boulardii.
In recent times, we have been able to learn and understand so much more about this remarkable probiotic and what it can do for us.
What is Saccharomyces Boulardii
- Boulardii. is a probiotic strain of saccharomyces cerevisiae a species related to brewer’s yeast but not related to the yeast group such as Candida. It has been used for decades to help support a healthy digestive system and has been extensively studied for its potential benefits on human health.
It is known as a transient yeast which refers to its passage through our digestive tract but does not make a home there or take up residence, known as a non-colonising probiotic. Instead, it influences our existing microbiome that is present in the gut before finally making its way out of the body.
- Boulardii remains viable after ingesting and being exposed to gastric juices, pepsin and hydrochloric acid which is one of the main obstacles for most probiotics. The stomach is a very acidic environment which we must have for protein breakdown and to inhibit unfavourable microorganisms.
During its transition through the digestive tract, S. Boulardii helps to support a healthy balance of our resident microbes as it grows at 37°C (human body temperature) and as it does it promotes the growth of other beneficial bacteria whilst inhibiting the growth of other harmful species.
Saccharomyces Boulardii and diarrhoea
As Henry Boulard discovered, S. Boulardii is well known for its ability to relieve the symptoms of diarrhoea. There are multiple causes of acute and persistent diarrhoea such as –
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhoea (AAD)
- IBS-D – loose watery stools associated with irritable bowel syndrome
- Travelling
- Viruses
- GI infections
- Side effects from some medications
- Runners who experience frequent, loose bowels during or immediately after a run
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Malabsorption
- Boulardii being a yeast strain probiotic is resistant to antibiotics so they can be used in conjunction with each other, whereas most probiotics are not advised during the course due to the increased risk that the antibiotic may affect the probiotic organisms. However, taking a good probiotic strain after antibiotic therapy would be beneficial.
- Boulardii can lessen the risk of antibiotic-induced diarrhoea which is a common side-effect caused by Clostridium difficile (C. Diff). C. Diff s a bacterium that can develop when taking antibiotics or once a course has finished that can cause cramps, nausea, watery, sometimes bloody diarrhoea. Of the many probiotics researched, S. Boulardii has been shown to have powerful effects by inhibiting the C. Diff pathogenic bacteria and their toxic byproducts which trigger loose, watery stools.
It has also been tested for its clinical efficacy with other types of GI infections including parasitic infections such as Blastocystis hominis and giardiasis as well as bacterial infections, particularly Helicobacter pylori. It may also help to crowd out the growth of unwanted opportunistic yeasts in the gut such as candida albicans by inhibiting its adhesion.
Saccharomyces Boulardii, immunity and inflammatory bowel disease
- Boulardii has demonstrated its ability to support the production of Secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) which is an important anti-inflammatory antibody that acts as our first line of defence in all mucosal surfaces in the body, especially the gut. S. Boulardii has been shown to strengthen the intestinal barrier integrity so helping to modulate our immune system and to regulate inappropriate inflammation.
The number of individuals living with Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has increased dramatically, with 1 in every 123 people living with Crohn’s or Colitis, and this number rises to 1 in every 67 individuals in their 70’s.
In small studies, those with Crohn’s disease treated with S. Boulardii had significant improvement and a reduction in colonic permeability compared to those who had been prescribed a placebo drug. It shows promise for IBD and IBS due to its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Today, we don’t need to go as far as chewing on the peels of mangosteens and lychees to extract the S. Boulardii strain, instead, we find them readily available in homogenous capsules for us to reap its benefits. This strain is very robust so it can be taken with or without food and at any time of the day.
Allergy Research Essential-Biotic Saccharomyces Boulardii capsules, available on Nutrilink.co.uk, are an excellent choice for maintaining gut health. This high-quality probiotic, known to support immune function and gut flora balance, is worth purchasing for its potential to alleviate digestive distress and promote overall wellness. Nutrilink.co.uk, renowned for its wide selection of premium health supplements and prompt customer service, provides a seamless shopping experience. Their competitive pricing and secure transaction process make them a trusted choice for health enthusiasts and professionals seeking superior products for their well-being.
