Spore-Based Probiotics Show Promise in Reducing Diarrhea Duration and Antibiotic Use in Children
A recent study indicates that a probiotic formula containing three strains of bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis, B.clausii,and B. coagulans) may considerably improve the treatment of persistent diarrhea in children and reduce reliance on antibiotics. The formula, delivering 5 billion live bacteria per dose, utilizes “spore probiotics” – a unique delivery system designed for enhanced efficacy.
Unlike traditional probiotics, these spore-forming bacteria create protective shells allowing them to withstand harsh conditions like high temperatures and stomach acid. This ensures the probiotics remain viable until they reach the intestines,where they can then activate and exert their beneficial effects. This resilience offers advantages in preservation, transportation, and delivery within the human body.
the study involved 100 children experiencing persistent diarrhea, divided into two groups: 50 received the probiotic (named DIA30) twice daily, while 50 received standard care. Analysis included data from 48 and 49 participants respectively. Results demonstrated a significant improvement in diarrhea symptoms within the DIA30 group. By the fifth day of treatment, the probability of symptom improvement was 9.5 times higher in the probiotic group compared to the control group. the treatment effect was 1.6 times greater, and the duration of the illness was shortened by an average of three days.
Importantly, the DIA30 group required antibiotics for two fewer days than the control group – a reduction of approximately 25%. This reduction is attributed to the faster improvement in condition, allowing physicians to discontinue antibiotic treatment earlier when clinically appropriate. this finding is particularly significant given the growing global concern of antibiotic resistance.Beyond symptom relief, the study also examined immune responses and changes in gut microbiota. Five days of treatment with DIA30 led to a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines (including IL-17, IL-23, and TNF-α), indicating a reduction in immune system overreaction. Together, levels of intestinal secreted immunoglobulin A (sIgA) increased, suggesting improved immune regulation.
Analysis of the gut microbiome revealed positive shifts in the DIA30 group. Beneficial bacterial populations, such as Actinomycetota and Bacillota, increased in density. Notably, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, a bacterium known to aid in diarrhea recovery and strengthen the intestinal barrier, reached a density of 0.91% on the fifth day in the probiotic group, whereas it was undetectable in the control group. The study also observed a decrease in the density of harmful gut bacteria within the DIA30 group.
These findings provide compelling clinical evidence supporting the use of this spore-based probiotic formula for the treatment of persistent diarrhea in children. The formula not only accelerates recovery but also reduces antibiotic usage, perhaps mitigating the risk of antibiotic resistance. The unique spore-based delivery system, offering superior heat and acid resistance and efficient intestinal activation, may be a key factor contributing to its clinical effectiveness.
