New clinical study supports the periodontal benefits of BLIS M18 probiotic

Stratum Nutrition announces that new research demonstrating the clinical benefits of BLIS M18 has recently been published in the International Journal of Pharma and Bio Science. BLIS M18 is a unique probiotic that supports oral and periodontal health. The results of this clinical trial, involving 28 adult volunteers, demonstrated statistically significant improvements in multiple indices of periodontal health in the BLIS M18 group following one month of probiotic BLIS M18 lozenge consumption.

BLIS M18 is a probiotic member of the bacterial species Streptococcus salivarius, originally developed by BLIS Technologies Ltd (Dunedin, New Zealand). BLIS M18 works through multiple mechanisms to inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, which is involved in the development of dental caries.

Poor health of the teeth and gums is a major issue in the developed world that often initially manifests itself as dental decay and inflammation of the gums (aka gingivitis). Gingivitis often begins as the body’s response to plaque build-up on the teeth, making regular oral care critical to help control plaque development.

Regular flossing and brushing may not be enough to prevent plaque build-up, particularly in susceptible individuals. Therefore, there is a large market demand for safe, effective, and economical methods for maintaining dental and periodontal health.

This trial consisted of 28 volunteers between the ages of 20 to 60 years, displaying varying degrees of poor periodontal health. Volunteers were initially assessed and assigned to active or control groups. Following the initial assessment, each subject underwent professional scaling and root planing. Volunteers in the active group then took two BLIS M18 lozenges (one in the morning and one at night after brushing) daily for 30 days. Clinical parameters were assessed at baseline, day 15, day 30, day 45 and day 60 for all volunteers.

Statistically greater dental and periodontal health benefits were observed in the BLIS M18 probiotic group for all parameters at the end of the probiotic intervention period (30 days) when compared with the control group. Interestingly, despite always remaining healthier than the control group, periodontal health gradually declined following cessation of BLIS M18 dosing, demonstrating the need for regular consumption of the probiotic for sustainable health benefits.

The study authors summarised their findings by stating that 'Streptococcus salivarius M18 may be potentially useful as an aid in improving the oral health of [periodontal patients].'

Reference: L. Scariya, et al., Int. J. Pharm. Bio. Sci. 6(1), 242–250 (2015).