Bacillus coagulans is a unique probiotic, a type of beneficial bacteria, that has garnered attention for its potential health benefits, including weight management. Unlike many other probiotics, Bacillus coagulans possesses the ability to form spores, allowing it to withstand harsh conditions, such as the acidic environment of the stomach, and making it a particularly robust strain. While research is still ongoing, emerging evidence suggests that Bacillus coagulans may offer promising effects on weight loss and overall metabolic health.
Understanding Bacillus Coagulans
Bacillus coagulans, now also known as Weizmannia coagulans, is a lactic acid-producing bacterium that is not naturally found in the body. Although both lactobacillus and B. coagulans produce a compound called lactic acid, unlike lactobacillus, B. coagulans forms spores. Spores are important for telling B. coagulans apart from other lactic acid bacteria. It is available in fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt, and also in supplement form. It can be purchased as capsules or gelcaps and in vegetarian or vegan formulas. Supplements may be sold in its spore, dormant state until it becomes activated in the intestines.
Bacillus Coagulans and Weight Management: Exploring the Evidence
Obesity has become a global epidemic, driving research into potential interventions, including the use of probiotics. Studies suggest that probiotics such as Bacillus coagulans may play a role in weight management through various mechanisms.
Reduction in Visceral Fat Mass
Visceral fat, the fat stored around abdominal organs, is particularly associated with metabolic abnormalities. A study evaluating the efficacy of Curezyme-LAC, an ingredient mixed with six-grain types fermented by B. coagulans, demonstrated a significant reduction in visceral adipose tissue in participants with obesity after 12 weeks compared to a placebo group. Specifically, the Curezyme-LAC group experienced a decrease of -9.3 cm2 ± 5.1 compared to an increase of 6.8 cm2 ± 3.4 in the placebo group (p = 0.008).
Improvements in Body Composition and Anthropometric Measures
In addition to reducing visceral fat, the Curezyme-LAC group also showed significant improvements in other body composition parameters. Compared to the placebo group, there were significant reductions in total fat mass (-0.43 ± 0.24 kg vs. 0.31 ± 0.19 kg, p = 0.011), body weight (-0.4 ± 0.3 kg vs. 0.3 ± 0.2 kg, p = 0.021), BMI (-0.14 ± 0.12 vs. 0.10 ± 0.07, p = 0.028), and waist circumference (-0.6 ± 0.2 cm).
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Clinical Trial on Overweight Individuals
A clinical trial involving overweight individuals found that Bacillus coagulans strain BC99 significantly decreased body weight after 8 weeks of oral administration (P < 0.01). Weight loss was significantly greater in the probiotic group than in the placebo group (P < 0.05).
Potential Mechanisms of Action
The mechanisms by which Bacillus coagulans may contribute to weight loss are multifaceted and may include:
Modulation of Gut Microbiota
Obesity is often associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis, an imbalance in the composition and diversity of gut bacteria. Probiotics like Bacillus coagulans can help restore a healthy balance in the gut microbiota, which may influence energy metabolism and fat storage.
Anti-Obesity Effects
Probiotics can provide anti-obesity effects by inhibiting the differentiation of preadipocytes, maintaining the balance of T helper (Th)1/Th2 cytokines, changing the composition of the intestinal microbiota, reducing the lipid level and regulating energy metabolism.
Improvement of Constipation Symptoms and Regulation of Intestinal Flora
A clinical trial has found that B. coagulans strain BC99 can improve constipation symptoms and regulate intestinal flora in adults with chronic constipation.
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Additional Health Benefits of Bacillus Coagulans
Beyond weight management, Bacillus coagulans has been investigated for its potential benefits in other areas:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
A study of people with IBS showed that symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation were significantly improved in participants who were given a synbiotic containing B. coagulans compared to a placebo. Taking B. coagulans by mouth seems to help relieve symptoms of IBS.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Research suggests that B. coagulans may possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Participants in a study who took B. coagulans in addition to their standard medication regimen reported less disability and an improved ability to participate in daily activities. They also showed a reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for inflammation.
Constipation
A study analyzing bowel movements found that participants who received a proprietary strain of B. coagulans lilac-01 containing soy okara powder showed improved bowel function and reported fewer incidents of incomplete evacuation. Taking B. coagulans by mouth seems to help relieve constipation.
Intestinal Gas
Research suggests that B. coagulans may alleviate symptoms related to intestinal gas, such as flatulence, stomach distension, and abdominal pain. Those who received the probiotic showed significant improvement in pain and abdominal distension when compared with the placebo group.
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Respiratory Tract Infection
A study found that participants given a patented strain of B. coagulans showed increased T cell production in response to influenza A and adenovirus exposure. These cells fight off diseases.
Safety and Considerations
Bacillus coagulans is generally considered safe when taken orally for a period of six months or less. The FDA regards Bacillus Coagulans Probiotics as safe and is on the Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) list. However, some individuals may experience side effects:
Allergic Reactions
Probiotics of all kinds may trigger allergic reactions.
Interactions with Medications
B. coagulans may interfere with antibiotics and with immunosuppressant medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant and nursing women are recommended to avoid taking the supplement since there hasn’t been enough research on its effects.
It's been used safely in doses of up to 6 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) daily for up to 3 months. Lower doses have been used safely for up to 1 year.
Incorporating Bacillus Coagulans into Your Routine
The best way to introduce B. coagulans is via natural food sources. It’s available in fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt. B. coagulans is also available in supplement form. It can be purchased as capsules or gelcaps and in vegetarian or vegan formulas.
Consult with a Healthcare Professional: As with any supplement, it is essential to discuss whether or not you should take B. coagulans with your doctor before you begin taking it. A qualified healthcare professional can best assist you in deciding whether a dietary supplement is suitable based on your individual needs.