This single arm, pilot study, has examined the effects of a Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 supplementation in young divers (9.10 ± 1.80 years) under stress conditions. They received 109 CFU/100 g daily for 8 weeks.

Results showed an improvement in cognitive state anxiety, somatic state anxiety and anxiety emotion (p < 0.001, p = 0.003 and p < 0.001 respectively). Moreover, at week 8, the performance of participants under stress was significantly improved (p = 0.019).

These results show therefore that B. lactis BB-12 can reduce anxiety and improve performance in young divers.

Dong W, Wang Y, Liao S, Tang W, Peng L, Song G. Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 Improves the State Anxiety and Sports Performance of Young Divers Under Stress Situations: A Single-Arm, Prospective Proof-of-Concept Study. Front Psychol. 2021 Jan 13;11:570298.

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