Tolerance and efficacy of a probiotic delivered in capsule form

Abstract

Background: Probiotic supplements have shown benefit in increasing frequency and efficiency of bowel movements and some strains have shown to reduce serum glucose levels. Bacillus subtilis is used in fermentation of some foods for probiotic effects and may be useful in concentrated supplement form.Objectives: The objectives in this study were to determine if daily consumption of Bacillus subtilis is safe for human consumption and effective at increasing frequency and improving consistency of bowel movements and increasing beneficial gut microbes while reducing pathogenic ones. Design: The tolerance and efficacy of encapsulated Bacillus subtilis was assessed in an average 20-day double blind, randomized, and placebo controlled study. Results: Most blood parameters remained within normal ranges throughout; however, fasted serum glucose levels in the probiotic group (? ? 0.05; P = 0.012) were significantly reduced. There was a significant increase in the average number of bowel movements per day within the control group (? ? 0.05; P = 0.015). No significant differences presented in microbe colonization in either group by fecal plate colony counting or qPCR. Conclusion: Daily consumption of Bacillus subtilis can be recognized as safe, and could potentially be effective as a supplement for those with glucose intolerance and diabetes.