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Bacillus Subtillis

Q: Is *Bacillus subtilis* safe for everyone?

*Bacillus subtilis* is generally safe, but individuals with specific health conditions should consult healthcare providers.

Q: When is the best time to take *Bacillus subtilis*?

For optimal results, *Bacillus subtilis* is best taken with meals to enhance spore survival.

Q: What benefits can I expect from taking *Bacillus subtilis*?

Users may see improvements in gastrointestinal health, immune function, and potentially enhanced animal performance.

Q: Is *Bacillus subtilis* the same as an antibiotic?

No, *Bacillus subtilis* is a probiotic that supports gut health, rather than acting as an antibiotic.

Also known as: Hay bacillus, Grass bacillus, Hog cholera bacillus, Bacillus subtilis

Overview

*Bacillus subtilis* is a Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium commonly found in soil and the gastrointestinal tracts of animals. Known for its ability to form resilient spores, *B. subtilis* is widely utilized as a probiotic supplement aimed at enhancing gut health, supporting immune function, and serving as an antibiotic alternative in animal feed. Its research maturity level is high, featuring numerous studies validating its efficacy and safety. The available evidence includes systematic reviews and meta-analyses, particularly emphasizing its benefits in both human and animal health contexts.

Benefits

Evidence-based benefits of *B. subtilis* include its significant role in improving animal health, as seen in a meta-analysis of broiler chickens where it enhanced average daily gain (ADG) and body weight (BW) while reducing feed conversion ratio (FCR) and mortality rates (P < 0.01). In humans, *B. subtilis* HU58 has been shown to safely improve gut health and reduce symptoms in hepatic encephalopathy patients. Other gastrointestinal benefits include aiding in acute diarrhea and functional constipation, particularly in elderly populations, while its potential as an immunomodulator can assist those with immune-related conditions.

How it works

*Bacillus subtilis* functions by colonizing the gastrointestinal tract, producing antimicrobial peptides, and modulating immune responses. It enhances gut microbiota interactions while stimulating the immune system and bolstering the intestinal epithelial barrier's function. Key compounds like surfactin and iturin, produced by *B. subtilis*, demonstrate antimicrobial properties and contribute to its beneficial effects, while its spore form ensures high resistance and bioavailability during gastrointestinal passage.

Side effects

*Bacillus subtilis* is generally considered safe for both human and animal use, with adverse effects being rare. Common side effects, noted in fewer than 5% of users, may include mild gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating or gas. Serious side effects are documented in less than 1% of cases, with no significant adverse effects consistently reported in clinical trials. Precautions should be taken in individuals on immunosuppressive therapies, and those with compromised immune systems are advised to consult healthcare providers before use. Safety in special populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with severe gastrointestinal diseases, should also be discussed with healthcare providers.

Dosage

For effective supplementation, dosages of *Bacillus subtilis* generally range from 1 to 10 billion CFU per day, depending on the application. A common recommendation for gastrointestinal health is 1 to 5 billion CFU daily. There is currently no established maximum safe dose; however, doses exceeding 10 billion CFU daily are less frequently studied. To enhance survival rates of spores, it is best taken with meals. The spore format of the probiotic aids in strengthening absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, while a healthy diet and hydration can further optimize its efficacy.