The effects of Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 on functional gas and bloating in adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Background: Gut microbiome dysbiosis is a major cause of abdominal gas, bloating, and distension. Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 (LactoSpore) is a spore-forming, thermostable, lactic acid-producing probiotic that has numerous health benefits. We evaluated the effect of Lacto Spore on improving the clinical symptoms of functional gas and bloating in healthy adults. Methods: Multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study at hospitals in southern India. Seventy adults with functional gas and bloating with a gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS) indigestion score ≥ 5 were randomized to receive B coagulans MTCC 5856 (2 billion spores/day, N = 35) or placebo (N = 35) for 4 weeks. Changes in the GSRS-Indigestion subscale score for gas and bloating and global evaluation of patient’s scores from screening to the final visit were the primary outcomes. The secondary outcomes were Bristol stool analysis, brain fog questionnaire, changes in other GSRS subscales, and safety. Results: Two participants from each group withdrew from the study and 66 participants (n = 33 in each group) completed the study. The GSRS indigestion scores changed significantly ( P < .001) in the probiotic group (8.91–3.06; P < .001) compared to the placebo (9.42–8.43; P = .11). The median global evaluation of patient’s scores was significantly better ( P < .001) in the probiotic group (3.0–9.0) than in the placebo group (3.0–4.0) at the end of the study. The cumulative GSRS score, excluding the indigestion subscale, decreased from 27.82 to 4.42% ( P < .001) in the probiotic group and 29.12 to 19.33% ( P < .001) in the placebo group. The Bristol stool type improved to normal in both the groups. No adverse events or significant changes were observed in clinical parameters throughout the trial period. Conclusions: Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 may be a potential supplement to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms in adults with abdominal gas and distension.