Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bacillus subtilis is a spore-forming probiotic bacterium increasingly used to support gastrointestinal health, including the management of enteritis—inflammation of the intestine, often due to infection or dysbiosis. Scientific evidence, primarily from animal studies and some clinical trials, supports its efficacy in reducing the severity and duration of enteritis, especially in cases caused by pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella.

Mechanism: B. subtilis exerts its beneficial effects through several mechanisms: it competes with pathogenic bacteria for nutrients and adhesion sites, produces antimicrobial compounds, enhances mucosal barrier function, and modulates host immune responses. These actions help restore balance to the gut microbiota and reduce inflammation.

Evidence: In animal models (e.g., poultry, piglets), supplementation with B. subtilis has consistently reduced the incidence and severity of infectious enteritis, improved growth rates, and enhanced gut morphology. Human evidence is less robust but includes small clinical trials and case reports suggesting that B. subtilis-containing probiotics may reduce diarrhea duration and support gut recovery in cases of acute enteritis. A 2020 review in Beneficial Microbes concluded that B. subtilis probiotics have potential as adjuncts in managing gastrointestinal infections, though more large-scale, high-quality human trials are needed.

Summary: While not a primary treatment, B. subtilis is justified as a supportive therapy for enteritis based on moderate scientific evidence, particularly in veterinary practice, with growing—though still limited—validation in humans.

More about bacillus subtilis
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Products containing bacillus subtilis

Nature's Sunshine AIVIA Performance Probiotic