EXPLORING THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF SPORE-BASED PROBIOTICS BACILLUS SPP.

Abstract

Data supporting the effects of selected strains of spore-based probiotics, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus clausii, on gastrointestinal (GI) and metabolic health is limited. This study was aimed at exploring the effects of (1) B. subtilis DE111 oral administration alone or in a synbiotic combination with bacteriophages in the healthy adult population with or without mild-to-moderate GI distress, and (2) B. clausii CSI08 administration in the healthy adult population with mild-to-moderate GI distress. Our study demonstrated that the spore-based probiotics B. subtilis DE111 (alone or in combination with bacteriophages) and B. clausii CSI08 are safe for human consumption and may be used as a dietary supplement in a healthy population with or without mild-to-moderate gastrointestinal distress and have the potential to improve certain aspects of GI health. B. subtilis DE111 showed a tendency to alleviate symptoms of acid reflux in some individuals. The reduction of the number of weekly stools following both treatments and improvements of stool consistency by B. subtilis DE111 and synbiotic supplementation suggest that further research is warranted in individuals suffering from frequent abnormal bowel movements. We also observed the phage-associated modulation of the IL-4 immune biomarker. Significant improvements in GI discomfort were recorded following B. clausii CSI08 application. We also observed slight improvements in the emotional state and stress levels of the participants consuming B. clausii CSI08. In addition, neither supplementation disrupted the gut microbial communities. Future research is needed to identify specific populations that can get the most benefit from spore-based probiotic applications.