Spore-Forming Probiotic May Reduce Body Fat and Improve Athletic Performance, New Study Suggests

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A recent, unpublished study found that consumption of Deerland Enzymes and Probiotics’ (Kennesaw, GA) proprietary, spore-forming Bacillus subtilis probiotic strain DE111 may help to reduce the percentage of body fat and improve athletic performance in collegiate athletes. The study authors say that the combination of DE111 consumption with “adequate post-workout nutrition” improved body composition and overall athletic performance and shows potential for use by both professional and recreational athletes.

The double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study featured 23 collegiate female athletes and was conducted over a period of 10 weeks. During the athletes’ off-season, participants completed the same 10-week resistance-training program. This training program consisted of 3-4 workouts per week of upper- and lower-body exercises and other, sport-specific training. The athletes were given either the DE111 probiotic or a placebo supplement in combination with a recovery protein drink post-training for the entirety of the 10-week study.

The study authors found that, compared to the placebo group, the group given DE111 demonstrated statistically significant improvements in the reduction of body fat percentage. In addition, the researchers said they observed an especially “strong trend” of improved performance after subjects completed deadlift weight-lifting exercises.

According to the company, DE111 is a genome-sequenced and clinically tested probiotic spore that supports digestive and immune health. The company says that DE111’s spore-forming ability protects the microbes from harsh conditions, and thus, makes it ideal for use in supplements, food, and beverages.

John Deaton, PhD, vice president of science and technology, Deerland, said in a press release: “These findings are encouraging for athletic individuals, both professional and recreational, that are looking for ways to naturally achieve maximum results from their training efforts.”

Deerland funded the study and provided the probiotic. Results from the study, titled “The effect of probiotic supplementation on body composition, muscle thickness, and athletic performance in Division I collegiate athletes,” were presented at the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) conference in Phoenix in June. 

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