3 Bacillus Indicus Health Benefits: Bacteria, Survivability And Triglycerides
Bacillus indicus is a sporulating bacteria known for its advantages in better colonization and survival through the digestive tract compared to non-sporulating strains. Sporulating bacteria are microorganisms that have the ability to form highly resistant spores as a survival strategy under unfavorable environmental conditions.
Bacillus indicus HU36 is the only probiotic strain that produces potent antioxidants in the intestines, making it beneficial for gut health. It is extraordinarily rich in bio-available carotenoids. Bio-available carotenoids are natural pigments found in certain foods that can be easily absorbed and utilized by the human body for various health benefits.
Bacillus Indicus has benefits for increasing good bacteria, survivability and lowering Triglyceride levels.
1. Increases Levels Of Beneficial Bacteria
A 2021 study authored by M Marzorati, found that treatment with MegaSporeBiotic™, a spore-based probiotic containing five Bacillus Indicus, led to positive changes in the gut microbiota.
The probiotic supplementation resulted in increased levels of beneficial bacteria like Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacteria. Akkermansia muciniphila is a beneficial bacterium found in the human gut that is associated with improved gut health.
It reduced levels of potentially harmful bacteria like Lactobacillus spp. and Bacteroidetes leading to an increase in bacterial diversity and favorably affected metabolic activity in the gut. Propionate levels increased, lactate levels decreased, and ammonium levels were reduced during the treatment period.
2. High Survivability Rates
A 2022 study authored by S Samanta, found that Bacillus indicus HU36 was successful as a probiotic in dark chocolate production.
The probiotic bacteria showed high survival rates in the chocolate samples, and all inoculated samples met the desired probiotic bacteria load. The importance of probiotic survivability lies in ensuring that a sufficient number of viable beneficial bacteria reach the gut to exert their health-promoting effects and support a balanced microbiota.
The addition of dietary fibers, particularly maltodextrin and lemon fiber, had positive effects on the sensory characteristics of the chocolate without causing any negative effects on taste or aroma. Lemon fiber is a dietary fiber extracted from lemons, often used as a functional ingredient in food products to add texture, increase fiber content, and potentially provide health benefits related to gut health. Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from starch, commonly used as a food additive to improve texture, increase shelf life, and enhance sweetness in various food products.
3. Lowers Triglyceride Levels
A 2022 study authored by AW Campbell, found that Bacillus indicus HU36 has significant ability to lower triglyceride levels in patients with mild to moderate hypertriglyceridemia.
Triglyceride levels represent the amount of fat (lipid) in the blood and elevated levels may indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and other health complications. Hypertriglyceridemia is a medical condition characterized by abnormally high levels of triglycerides in the blood, which can be associated with an increased risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Lowering triglycerides is crucial for reducing cardiovascular risk, and the use of probiotics, such as Bacillus indicus HU36, can be a valuable and simple intervention in addressing elevated triglycerides and supporting heart health. Elevated triglycerides can have adverse effects on heart health, as they are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes.
What Are The Side Effects Of Bacillus Indicus?
The side effects of Bacillus indicus, a spore-based probiotic, may include uncomfortable reactions such as abdominal cramping, loose stools, and changes in bowel movements.
These side effects are generally temporary and may occur as part of a herxheimer reaction, indicating the probiotic is working to restore gut balance. A Herxheimer reaction is a temporary and often uncomfortable response to treatment, characterized by an exacerbation of symptoms, caused by the release of toxins as harmful microorganisms are killed off and eliminated from the body.
Under certain conditions, probiotics, including Bacillus Indicus. may cause negative side effects, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems. It's essential to consider individual responses and consult a healthcare professional if any concerns arise. A compromised immune system refers to a state where the body's ability to defend against infections and diseases is weakened or impaired, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses and infections.
Dr. Sara Mesilhy has a Master’s degree in Gastroenterology and holds a membership with the Royal College of Physicians of the United Kingdom. She completed her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) at Cairo University and is currently part of the ProbioticReviewGirl medical team.