Probiotics may reduce pro-inflammatory compounds, says new study

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New research published in Sports¹ studied the effects of probiotic supplementation in athletes during their 12 weeks of off-season training. In the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 25 Division I baseball players were randomized to either take a probiotic (Bacillus subtilis DE111 from Deerland Probiotics & Enzymes; Kennesaw, GA) or placebo every day for 12 weeks. Pre- and post-training, blood and saliva samples were taken to measure inflammatory and immune biomarkers. Results showed that athletes assigned to probiotics had lower levels of the pro-inflammatory compound tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).

“[The results] indicate that DE111 supplementation may reduce systemic low-grade inflammation as indicated by suppressed TNF-α in trained athletes,” said John Deaton, PhD, vice president of science and technology, at Deerland. “Additionally, while not significant, DE111 may promote a more favorable metabolism in trained athletes as indicated by lower cortisol levels following treatment. The results of this study continue to prove that probiotics are highly useful for those engaged in intense physical performance, as DE111 may help them sustain overall health and well-being.”
 

References:

1. Townsend JR et al. “Effects of probiotic (Bacillus subtilis DE111) supplementation on immune function, hormonal status, and physical performance in Division I baseball players.” Sports, vol. 6 (2018), no. 3: 70