Spore-forming probiotics: the secret of their unique effectiveness

Probiotics like no other

Sporulated probiotics are distinguished from ‘classic’ probiotics by their unique ability to go into ‘survival mode' in a hostile environment (heat, acidity, lack of food, etc.).

Unlike most probiotics, which are live when ingested, spore-forming probiotics transform into spores, a tiny, highly resistant form, as if the bacteria had encased themselves in a protective shell.

In this form, the bacteria can remain dormant, i.e. inactive. This dormancy enables them to survive difficult storage conditions and, crucially, gastric acidity when ingested.

Once they arrive in a favourable environment, such as the colon, they 'wake up' to their active form and once again become living bacteria capable of acting on the intestinal microbiota (1-2).

This unique advantage makes them more stable and effective than live probiotics, which are partially destroyed by gastric acid and only reach the intestines in reduced quantities.

They are found naturally in certain fermented foods (Japanese natto, fermented rice and vegetables, some sourdough breads, fermented drinks, etc.). Today, however, they are most commonly found in the form of food supplements.

These are practical to use (no need for refrigerated storage for most spore-forming strains), survive better in the intestine and have a targeted action, since activation only takes place in the right place.

Discover the SporesBiotics Formula food supplement, a synergy of spore-forming strains selected to support the balance of the intestinal microbiota.

Studied effects on the intestinal microbiota and beyond

Sporulated probiotics and digestive balance

Recent scientific research shows that spore-forming probiotics, such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus clausii (or Alkalihalobacillus clausii) and Bacillus coagulans (or Heyndrickxia coagulans), can favourably influence the composition of the intestinal microbiota (3).

By strengthening the digestive balance, these bacteria are thought to contribute to more harmonious intestinal functioning.

For example, Bacillus clausii is being studied in particular for its ability to support the reconstruction of the microbiota after a disturbance, particularly following antibiotic treatment, especially as it is itself resistant to antibiotics (4).

For its part, Bacillus subtilis has been studied for its ability to stimulate certain intestinal defence mechanisms, thereby strengthening the digestive barrier and its interaction with immunity (6).

What's more, a diverse and stable microbiota doesn't just play a role in digestion. It interacts with numerous processes in the body, from the production of vitamins to the modulation of certain metabolic and immune responses.

Some studies have also observed the impact of taking spore-forming probiotics beyond the digestive system.

Potential support for immunity

Several strains appear to have the capacity to modulate the immune response, thereby contributing to better defence against infections and external aggressors.

Studies have looked at the effects of Bacillus subtilis, highlighting that this strain could help inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, thanks to its natural antibacterial properties (6-7).

Effects on lipid balance?

A fairly recent study also showed a potential effect of a mixture of spore-forming probiotics, containing strains of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus coagulans, on lipid balance (8).

Research indicates that Bacillus coagulans may promote the production of digestive enzymes and organic acids, thereby improving nutrient absorption (9-10).

This metabolic action could have wider repercussions. It would explain the findings of one clinical trial, which revealed an effect on specific lipid profile parameters linked to the regulation of cholesterol and triglycerides (11).

These results suggest new avenues of research into the regulation of blood lipids.

Sporulated bacteria and skin health

The effects of spore-forming probiotics do not appear to be limited to digestion or metabolism.

A recent clinical trial showed an improvement in the appearance of the skin in acne sufferers after supplementation with spore-forming probiotics (12).

The hypothesis is that rebalancing the gut microbiota could indirectly influence skin health, in what researchers are now calling the gut-skin axis.

These results open up interesting prospects, but still need to be confirmed by larger clinical trials. For the moment, what we do know is that this type of probiotic supports the balance of the intestinal microbiota.

Simple supplementation and interesting applications for the future

Taking spore-forming probiotics is generally well tolerated and fairly simple to administer, since the products used do not require any special storage conditions.

Today, research is exploring new applications in various areas of health (13):

• the possibility of combining spore strains and specific prebiotics to encourage the production of beneficial metabolites, such as butyrate, and to modulate the microbiota in a targeted way
• potential effects on lipid and glycaemic profiles via action on nutrient metabolism
• the use of inactivated strains (postbiotics) as an alternative or complement to live probiotics
• relief of mild functional digestive disorders such as bloating, gas and abdominal discomfort
• modulation of immunity thanks to a supposed action on the immune system

Today, it is possible to take advantage of the specific effects of certain isolated strains by supplementation.

For example, if you want to support the balance of your intestinal microbiota while benefiting from a potential effect on immunity, you could opt for the Bacillus subtilis strain.

Discover the Bacillus Subtilis food supplement, with its studied effects on digestive balance and immunity.

If you want to test a probiotic studied for its specific effects on bacterial growth and the immune system, you might consider the Bacillus coagulans strain.

Discover the Bacillus Coagulans food supplement, a spore-forming bacterium with a broad spectrum of action.

You can also combine the benefits of several spore-forming probiotics by using a product made up of several species.

Discover the synergistic SporesBiotics Formula, which combines several spore-forming strains for complementary action.