Probiotic May Help Support Immune System

Streptococcus salivarius K12 is an oral probiotic strain that has been found to promote oral health. Now a new study suggests that streptococcus salivarius K12 may help induce beneficial changes in the immune system.

Sixty adults between the ages of 18 and 30 participated in the study. They were given a single dose of 10 billion CFU’s of streptococcus salivarius K12 or a placebo. Blood samples were taken at baseline, 24 hours after consumption, and 7 days after consumption.

The researchers found that levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 were significantly higher after 7 days in participants in the probiotic group. There was also in increase in IL-12, a cytokine that promotes a protective response in the immune system. In addition, there was an increase in regulatory T cells, which help regulate the immune system.

The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Otago. It was published online ahead of print on July 19, 2021, in the journal Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins.