Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bacillus species, especially Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus coagulans, are spore-forming probiotic bacteria that have been investigated for their role in supporting gut health, including in patients with colitis. There is a growing body of preclinical and some clinical evidence suggesting potential benefits, although the quality and quantity of data are still limited compared to more commonly studied probiotics like Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium.

Several animal studies have shown that supplementation with Bacillus strains can reduce inflammation, improve gut barrier function, and modulate immune responses in models of colitis (such as dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice). Proposed mechanisms include competitive inhibition of pathogenic bacteria, production of short-chain fatty acids, and regulation of cytokine profiles.

Human clinical data are less robust, but a few small randomized controlled trials and pilot studies suggest that Bacillus-based probiotics may reduce symptoms and inflammatory markers in patients with ulcerative colitis or irritable bowel syndrome. However, these studies often have limitations such as small sample sizes, short duration, or use of Bacillus in combination with other probiotics, making it difficult to attribute effects specifically to Bacillus species.

Overall, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence supporting the use of Bacillus (mixed) for colitis, more high-quality, large-scale clinical trials are needed to establish efficacy and safety. The evidence at present supports a modest rating.

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