For the estimated 15 million Americans suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a new weapon has joined the probiotic arsenal: Lynside Pro GI+.

Recently launched by Lesaffre Human Care of France, the ingredient is only the second-known probiotic yeast in existence, and the first to directly target IBS.

"It is very important for probiotic manufacturers to study and confirm specific health benefits of the probiotic strain that they intend to sell," explained Adeline Cheong, Ph.D., senior manager, business development. "For Lynside Pro GI+, research has been carried out for several years to study the patented strain, Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNCM I-3856, before the official launch."

Lynside Pro SCB is a probiotic yeast that helps maintain intestinal flora. The proprietary strain is part of the company's Lynside range of yeast strains, which also includes Boulardii, an anti-diarreal that has undergone some 40 clinical trials.

Many consumers are familiar with nutritional yeasts, single-celled fungi known for their rich nutritional profile of fiber, protein and amino acids. Probiotic yeasts, however, are known for their digestive benefits. They are unique in that they have a high survival rate in the human GI tract, and are resistant to gastric acidity, bile salts and even antibiotics.

Lynside Pro GI+ was identified from the company's databank of more than 6,000 probiotic strains, gaining attention for its demonstrated IBS benefits in a 2008 clinical trial. The results of that study were presented at the 18th United European Gastroenterology Week held in Spain in October, but have not yet been published.

Since 2005, preclinical trials (in-vitro, ex-vivo and in-vivo) have been ongoing with Lynside Pro GI+. These trials have demonstrated that the strain survives transit through the gastrointestinal tract, has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the perception of intestinal pain, Cheong said.

One of the preclinical trials on the anti-inflammatory potential of several non-pathogenic yeast strains was published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology in May 2010. Two additional clinical trials are expected to be completed by the end of 2011.

Lynside Pro GI+ has been registered with the French National Collection of Microorganism Cultures and a functional health claim has been submitted to the European Food and Safety Authority. The proposed claim would state: “Noticeably reduces digestive discomfort after four weeks of consumption.”