top of page
Writer's pictureYoona

Tackling Cholesterol with Innovation: The Rise of Postbiotics and BBR4401®

Current Situation of Cholesterol in the World and the US

Cholesterol levels are a significant health concern globally, with nearly 94 million U.S. adults over the age of 20 having total cholesterol levels greater than 200 mg/dL, which is considered borderline high. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, leading causes of death not only in the U.S. but worldwide. The prevalence of high cholesterol underscores the need for better management strategies and innovations in treatment and prevention.


The Market Increase in Cholesterol and Vascular Diseases

As the population ages and the prevalence of lifestyle diseases increases, there is a growing demand for effective cholesterol management solutions. The market for cholesterol and vascular health is expanding rapidly. Innovative treatments that move beyond traditional medications, such as statins, are in particular demand, offering new hope for those battling cardiovascular health issues.


Introducing Postbiotics Can Deal with Cholesterol

Postbiotics, the non-viable bacterial byproducts resulting from the fermentation process by probiotics, are gaining recognition for their health benefits, including their potential to manage cholesterol. These substances present a safer alternative to traditional treatments, particularly for individuals who experience adverse effects from statins or those seeking a more natural approach to cholesterol management.


Ildong Bioscience, a leader in nutritional products, has developed BBR4401®, a postbiotic that demonstrates promising results in managing cholesterol levels. Derived from Bifidobacterium breve, BBR4401® is known for its beneficial effects on gut health and beyond. For more information, visit ILDONG Bioscience BBR4401®.

Detailed on BBR4401's Mechanisms


Interaction with Bile Acids:

  • Promotion of De Novo Synthesis: BBR 4401 enhances the liver's ability to synthesize bile acids from cholesterol, effectively reducing the cholesterol pool within the body. By increasing the synthesis of bile acids, BBR 4401 decreases the overall cholesterol available in the system.

  • Increased Excretion of Cholesterol: BBR 4401 facilitates the excretion of cholesterol through feces by impacting bile acid reabsorption in the intestines. This promotes the expulsion of cholesterol converted into bile acids, rather than its reabsorption back into the bloodstream.

Improvement in Lipid Profiles:

A significant reduction in LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and apolipoprotein B observed in the study indicates an effective alteration in lipid metabolism, crucial for reducing cardiovascular disease risks.


Metabolite Analysis and Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

  • Alteration of Metabolites: The study identified changes in specific metabolites, including amino acids, sugars, and fatty acids, which may play roles in modulating cholesterol metabolism and overall metabolic health.

  • Potential Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The alteration in metabolites suggests potential anti-inflammatory properties. Metabolites such as shikimic acid and l-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which were altered in the BBR 4401 group, are known for their roles in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.


Implications for Gut Health:

Improved bowel habits reported in the study suggest a beneficial effect on gut health. By modulating the gut microbiota and enhancing the excretion of bile acids and cholesterol, BBR 4401 may contribute to a healthier digestive system, closely linked to overall metabolic health.


Benefits of General Postbiotics

Postbiotics, including BBR4401®, offer several benefits:

  • Safety: They are generally safer than live bacterial supplements, as they do not pose a risk of infection.

  • Stability: Postbiotics are more stable during processing and storage, making them more effective over time.

  • Efficacy: They can be engineered to provide specific health benefits, such as immune modulation and cholesterol reduction.

  • Accessibility: Postbiotics can be included in a variety of dietary forms, making them accessible to a wider audience.


The rise of postbiotics represents a significant advancement in combating cholesterol and vascular diseases. With products like ILDONG Bioscience’s BBR4401®, individuals now have new, effective tools at their disposal to manage their cholesterol levels and improve their overall cardiovascular health. As research continues to evolve, the potential for postbiotics in health and disease management promises a healthier future for those affected by cholesterol-related conditions.

bottom of page