To develop Actimel, the Danone research centre (Daniel Carasso International Research Centre) selected the most effective strain of Lactobacillus casei. Named L. casei Imunitass®, several studies have shown that it can: · contribute to the maintenance of the immune system (7), · quicken the action of enzymes in the intestinal flora (8) · lower the instance and duration of acute diarrhoea in children (9).

L. Casei

Studies also demonstrate that L. casei Imunitass® survives passage through the digestive tract (5 to 10% of the quantity ingested, or more than 5.107 cultures per gram of yogurt) (10). During digestion, Actimel conserves a quantity of cultures sufficient for effective action in vivo.

			Actimel is more than a simple dairy product. The L. casei it contains makes it a probiotic-a microbian dietary supplement that acts beneficially to balance intestinal flora (11). Drinking Actimel each morning as part of a nutritious breakfast helps reinforce the body's immune system day after day. Suitable for the entire family, Actimel can help balance intestinal flora, especially during antibiotic treatment. For children 6 months and older, it is especially useful in preventing diarrhoea. It can also shorten episodes of diarrhoea or make them less severe. Recommend Actimel to your patients. They'll discover a delicious yogurt drink and a new health habit. (7) Increased levels of salivary IgM and anti-salmonella IgA following oral vaccination in healthy adults (Drewitt et al., 1996). (8) Lowered activities of ß-glucuronidase and ß-glucosidase, 2 enzymes involved in metabolic processes considered harmful (Guérin-Danan C et al., 1997). (9) Reinert P et al., 1997. (10) Havenaar R et al., in vitro study, 1994. (11) Fuller, 1989.