Bacillus subtilis has been around since the 1950s. In fact, it is the primary ingredient in the topical antibiotic Bacitracin. This type of bacteria works by boosting the production of cytokines, interferons, and antibodies. These are what help fight cancer and infections. Additionally, this bacteria is highly effective for burns and cuts while saving many lives.
What’s more, it also shows in one study as being effective in reducing the length of respiratory infections in aging people. Interestingly, it is also in use as an additive to HPV vaccines which shows in one study to be a more effective treatment plan.
However, now it is gaining popularity for the Bacillus subtilis probiotic benefits. In addition, it now has the FDA approval for “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS.)
What is Bacillus Subtilis?
Bacillus subtilis is a spore-forming bacteria. Amazingly, the Bacillus subtilis probiotic benefits come from the soil beneath our feet. In fact, humans need interaction with soil to gain benefit from the Bacillus spore-forming probiotics.
The use of soil-based probiotics is not something new. Rather, Europeans have been using them for the last 50 years. However, they are only recently becoming popular in the United States.
It is a wholly natural occurrence for humans to interact with the soil. We eat food from the soil in addition to breathing it in our lungs and getting it all over our hands and body. So, our bodies recognize soil as a natural part of our existence and know what to do with the Bacillus flora. In fact, without this interaction, our bodies suffer the lowering of immunity and metabolism.
Is Bacillus Subtilis Gram-Positive or Negative?
First, let’s explain the difference between gram-positive or negative. Here are just a few of some characteristics of each.
About Bacteria that is Gram-Positive
- The peptidoglycan layer of the cell wall is thick.
- This views as a purple color under the microscope.
- The cell structure is absent of an outer membrane which makes it more susceptible to antibiotics.
About Bacteria that is Gram-Negative
- The peptidoglycan layer of the cell wall is thin.
- This views as a pink color under the microscope.
- Cell structure includes an outer membrane that is resistant to antibiotics.
The significance of this is that Bacillus subtilis is gram-positive which assists in its effectiveness and viability. This is a helpful quality because it allows the Bacillus subtilis to remain viable during the processing of supplement forms.
Bacillus Subtilis Facts About Gut & Immune Health
As a result of the excellent antibacterial qualities, Bacillus subtilis also shows in studies to be effective in treating childhood diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Interestingly, for the treatment of gut and urinary infections, many doctors prescribe either Rotavirus or Shigella (for shingles.)
The great part about Bacillus subtilis probiotic benefits over other probiotic alternatives is that it withstands and survives stomach acid. By so doing, spores germinate and grow in the small intestine. This sequence repeats and eventually the spores pass through the gut and then excrete (back to the soil.) Interestingly, this natural process takes about 7 – 21 days.
It is also worth noting that farmers have lower rates of infections and other illnesses than city-dwellers. Never-the-less, these spore bacteria exposures from the soil are routine expectations of the human body. However, the problem with modern lifestyles is that many people don’t get exposure to the earth’s soil that they need.
Resistance to Harmful Toxins & Bacteria
Bacillus subtilis probiotic benefits also include resistance to harmful organisms. In one study, it suggests effectiveness in forcing out toxins and harmful bacteria.
Additionally, it binds mycotoxins that derive from fungi and other types of mold. These mycotoxins grow and contaminate foods such as nuts and corn. However, one study shows that some probiotics which include Bacillus subtilis are able to not only break down the toxins but also might protect cells from damage.
Promotes the Production of Enzymes
Another Bacillus subtilis probiotic benefit is the way it supports enzymes. This is important for good gut health. Some of the enzyme production Bacillus subtilis supports are amylase, chitinase, lipase, protease, and xylanase.
Sources of Bacillus Subtilis
Again, Bacillus subtilis is in the soil under our feet, but there are other ways of getting more Bacillus subtilis into your system. By the process of fermentation, some foods become a wonderful source of Bacillus subtilis. However, be sure to remember that it’s also readily available in a supplement form.
The following is a list of popular fermented foods from around the world.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar for this purpose must be raw. It contains probiotics and some types of acid that are beneficial.
Kefir
Kefir is milk that goes through a fermentation process. It is made from animal milk such as cow, goat, or sheep. It contains calcium, biotin, enzymes, folate, magnesium, vitamins B12 and K2, and probiotics.
Kimchi
Kimchi is from Korea and is a traditional dish that dates to the 7th century. There are many varieties, and all are made with vegetables and spices. The most common vegetables you will find in this dish are cabbage and radishes. However, there are over 100 different varieties so you will be able to find one that suits you.
Kombucha
When black tea and sugar ferment together, it makes kombucha. The product of this fermentation contains traces of alcohol but too little to cause intoxication.
Miso
Miso derives from the fermentation process that includes barley or brown rice with koji, and soybeans. The use of this food for health reasons dates back to 2500 years in both China and Japan.
Pickles
Surprisingly, this common American food contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and probiotics.
Raw Cheese
Raw cheese starts with milk that has not yet gone through a pasteurization process. It is high in probiotics.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut derives from cabbage and literally translates as “sour cabbage”. It is high in fiber and vitamins A, C, B, and K. Additionally, it contains the minerals calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, and sodium.
Yogurt
Along with kefir, yogurt is highly bioavailable which makes it an excellent choice for fermented food in your diet. However, look for goat or sheep’s milk if you are unable to consume milk from cows.
Tip o’ the Hat to Dr. Axe.
Where to Find Bacillus Subtilis Probiotic Supplements
This is where you must do your research to find the best Bacillus subtilis probiotic supplement for you. Also, be cautious and follow the manufacturer’s recommended dose. Moreover, it’s important to buy your supplements from a reliable source. To do this, read reviews and consult with your medical professional to ensure that you get the best possible supplement for your dietary needs.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.