The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial lasted four weeks, and was conducted on 43 participants aged 18 to 65. The goal of the trial was to determine if cardiovascular parameters could be altered by probiotic supplementation, an idea based on previous studies that showed correlations between certain strains and healthy vascular function.Bacillus subtilishas been shown in the past to support healthy cholesterol levels in animal models.
The findings: 1 billion CFU of DE111 per day resulted in significant reduction in total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol, relative to baseline measures. The researchers also observed improvement in endothelial function. The reactive hyperemia index (RHI), an indicator of blood flow and heart health, increased by 9.14%.
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While the researchers weren’t sure of the mechanism of action, they suggested in the study that it may be due to the fact thatB. subtiliscan raise levels of short chain fatty acids (SCFA), by enhancing the growth of other species that produce SCFA.“Notably, these effects were observed in a population of healthy individuals, and the results strongly suggest thatB. subtilis supplementation may help support cardiovascular health,” commented Dr. John Deaton, VP of Science and Technology at Deerland, in a press release.
In the study, the researchers wrote: “Considering the relatively short duration of the current intervention, and the healthy status of the participants, further exploration of the potential cardiovascular benefits ofB. subtilisis warranted in clinical populations."
