Bacillus Coagulans Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Bacillus coagulans is a type of probiotic and is one of the most common found in probiotic supplements today. The term probiotics refers to beneficial bacteria that live in your gut. Not all bacteria is good for you, and likewise not all is bad. Balancing the good bacteria in your gut can help prevent a variety of conditions such as constipation and diarrhea, weight gain, skin problems, and certain chronic health conditions. Not all probiotics are the same, and each can have different effects on the body.¹

Bacillus Coagulans Uses and Health Benefits

As a beneficial form of gut bacteria, Bacillus coagulans comes with many health benefits. It’s been used to help boost the immune system and prevent various types of respiratory infections.² It’s also believed to help prevent cancer, and research suggests it may help when added to vaccines by boosting their effectiveness.² Bacillus coagulans also has many benefits on the digestive system and is believed to help with the following conditions:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive issue that leads to cramping, gas, and diarrhea or constipation. Probiotic supplements can be effective in reducing IBS symptoms.
• Ulcerative Colitis - Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that leads to inflammation in the intestines. Bacillus coagulans uses include for fighting ulcerative colitis symptoms.
• Indigestion - Indigestion is common and simply refers to abdominal discomfort, which usually takes place after eating. Bloating and nausea may occur. Bacillus coagulans may help reduce symptoms.
• Diarrhea - Among Bacillus coagulans benefits, it has been used to treat multiple types of diarrhea, including infectious varieties like rotaviral diarrhea; diarrhea caused by antibiotics; and traveler’s diarrhea.
• Crohn’s Disease - Similar to ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease, though symptoms can appear outside of the large intestine and anywhere in the digestive tract. Bacillus coagulans may be able to help.

Bacillus Coagulans Side Effects and Precautions

Although early studies have shown that Bacillus coagulans may help in boosting the immune system and reducing harmful bacteria in the body, there has not been enough research on humans to confirm these claims. Because of this, it’s best to avoid the probiotic if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Bacillus coagulans side effects may involve interactions with other drugs, including antibiotics and immunosuppressants.² Always talk to your doctor before starting on an herbal remedy to ensure it’s the right choice for you and that it won’t interact with other herbs or medications you’re taking.

References

1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/what-are-probiotics/art-20232589
2. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/1185.html
3. http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/irritable-bowel-syndrome
4. http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/reports/articles/ulcerative-colitis
5. http://www.umm.edu/health-information/medical-reference-guide/medical-encyclopedia/articles/indigestion