Probiotics are integral to immune health, stimulating antibody production and cell-mediated immunity. Research indicates that probiotics may enhance B cell, T cell and NK cell function, phagocytic capacity and activity, and healthy cytokine production.1, 2 A recent meta-analysis involving 9 randomized controlled trials has revealed that probiotics maintain healthy immune and nasal function.3 These strains provide support for a healthy immune response and immunoglobulin function. *B. longum* BB536 is a shelf stable probiotic in Japan, supported in the literature by over 25 human trials and 30 animal studies. Double blind, placebo-controlled trials indicate that *B. longum* BB536 supplementation maintains GI bacteria balance, supporting immune function and maintaining eye, nose and throat health.4-7 In another randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial, *L. acidophilus* and *B. lactis* showed support for nasal function and maintained healthy eosinophil activity within the nasal lining.8 Research involving *B. bifidum* , *L. casei* and *L. plantarum* also suggests that these strains maintain healthy cytokine production, IgE function and mast cell integrity.
