A new clinical study in children reported on the beneficial effects of the oral-cavity probiotic BLIS K12 (Streptococcus salivarius K12) from Blis Technologies and Stratum Nutrition, which appeared to reduce the occurrences of streptococcal pharyngo-tonsillitis (PT) and acute otitis media (AOM) in young children with no previous history of either condition.
 
This study was recently published in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences and supports the existing body of clinical research showing the benefits of BLIS K12 for reducing streptococcal PT and AOM in children, as well as streptococcal PT in adults already predisposed to recurring episodes of these conditions.
 
This clinical trial was conducted by Di Pierro et al (Milan, Italy) on 222 otherwise healthy male and female ethnically diverse children around the age of 3 years. Children were randomized into two demographically equivalent groups (n=111 per group), with one group given BLIS K12 probiotic (one slow-dissolving tablet daily), while the other group served as the untreated control. The BLIS K12 probiotic was administered for 6 months with an additional 3-month follow-up in a sub-population (n=29/group).
 
At the end of the 6-month intervention period, the investigators reported the number of children diagnosed with streptococcal PT and AOM, in the control group was 54 (49%) and 89 (80%) respectively, compared to 18 (16%; P<0.01) and 49 (44%; P<0.01) in the BLIS K12 probiotic group. The total number of episodes (including recurrent cases during the study period) of PT and AOM was significantly lower (P<0.01) in the BLIS K12 group (21, 53) compared to control (67, 101) respectively.
 
“Once again, the clinical efficacy of BLIS K12 is reported in an entirely new population of children who might potentially benefit,” said Dr. Joseph L. Evans, founder and president, P & N Development Ventures, Saint Louis, MO. “It is one achievement to demonstrate the protective benefits in a population that has proven to be susceptible. It is an altogether new challenge to show an analogous benefit in those who had exhibited no previous susceptibility. PT and AOM are the primary drivers of practitioner visits in this population, with no proven or approved prophylactic agents available.”
 
BLIS K12 is a unique strain of Streptococcus salivarius, a bacterial species commonly found in the oral cavity of healthy individuals. Supporting a beneficial microbiome in the oral cavity through BLIS K12 supplementation can be one of the best ways to maintain continued optimal oral hygiene and upper respiratory health.