gut health probiotics

Understanding CFU in Probiotics: What You Need to Know

Probiotics have gained a lot of popularity in recent years, with many people turning to them to improve their gut health. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be found in certain foods and supplements. They are believed to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your gut, which can have a positive effect on your overall health.

When it comes to choosing a probiotic supplement, you may have come across the term CFU. CFU stands for Colony Forming Units, and it is a measure of the number of viable microorganisms in a probiotic product. In this blog post, we will dive into what CFU means and why it is important when choosing a probiotic supplement.

What are CFUs?

CFUs are a measure of the number of viable microorganisms in a probiotic product. Viable microorganisms are those that are alive and able to reproduce. CFUs are typically measured per gram or per serving of the probiotic product. The higher the CFU count, the more microorganisms are present in the product.

Why are CFUs important in probiotics?

CFUs are important in probiotics because they help to ensure that the product contains a sufficient number of viable microorganisms to provide the intended health benefits. Probiotics are meant to introduce beneficial bacteria into your gut, and the CFU count helps to ensure that there are enough of these bacteria to make a difference.

It is important to note that the number of CFUs needed for a probiotic to be effective can vary depending on the strain of bacteria used and the health condition being targeted. For example, a probiotic that is intended to help with diarrhea may require a higher CFU count than one that is intended to support overall gut health.

How to choose a probiotic based on CFUs

When choosing a probiotic supplement, the CFU count is just one of many factors to consider. It is also important to consider the strain(s) of bacteria used in the product, as well as any other ingredients and potential allergens.

In conclusion, CFUs are an important factor to consider when choosing a probiotic supplement. A higher CFU count can indicate that a product contains more viable microorganisms, which can increase the likelihood of it providing health benefits. However, it is important to consider other factors as well, such as the strain(s) of bacteria used, when choosing a probiotic supplement.

 Why is there CFU difference between different probiotic strains?

CFU counts can vary for vegetative and spore-forming probiotics due to their different characteristics and survival rates.

Vegetative probiotics are live microorganisms that are in their active state and able to reproduce. They are more fragile and can be sensitive to environmental factors such as temperature, moisture, and acidity. Vegetative probiotics have a shorter shelf life and may require refrigeration to maintain their potency. As a result, vegetative probiotics may have higher CFU counts, typically ranging from 2-10 billion CFUs per serving.

On the other hand, spore-forming probiotics are microorganisms that can form a protective spore when conditions become unfavourable, allowing them to survive in harsh environments. Spore-forming probiotics have a longer shelf life and can withstand heat, acidity, and other adverse conditions. This makes them more stable and better suited for use in food products or supplements that do not require refrigeration. Spore-forming probiotics may have lower CFU counts, typically ranging from 150 million to 2 billion CFUs per serving.

It is important to note that CFU counts alone should not be the only factor to consider when choosing a probiotic supplement. The strain(s) of bacteria used and the health condition being targeted should also be taken into account. A probiotic supplement that contains a high CFU count but the wrong strain(s) may not be effective for the intended purpose. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Bacillus coagulans SNZ 1969® is a spore-forming probiotic that requires lower CFU counts to be effective compared to vegetative strains. This is due to its unique ability to form heat-resistant spores, which protect the bacteria through digestion and ensure they reach the intestines alive. Unlike vegetative strains, which are more fragile and need higher CFU counts to survive harsh conditions, Bacillus coagulans’ spores are more resilient, making lower CFU concentrations still effective. This resilience not only simplifies storage and handling but also enhances its stability and effectiveness in promoting gut health and supporting a balanced microbiome.

bacillus clausii oral suspension

Bacillus clausii Oral Suspension: Effective probiotics shots

Introduction

The human body is home to trillions of microorganisms that play a pivotal role in maintaining our health. Among these microorganisms, probiotics are gaining popularity due to their potential health benefits. Bacillus clausii, a probiotic strain, has been the subject of considerable research and has shown promising effects on various health conditions. One of the common forms of Bacillus clausii is the oral suspension, which has gained widespread recognition for its ease of use and potential therapeutic properties. In this blog, we will delve into the world of Bacillus clausii oral suspension, exploring its uses, benefits, dosage, side effects, and current research findings.

What is Bacillus clausii oral suspension?

Bacillus clausii is a spore-forming, Gram-positive bacterium that naturally resides in the soil. It has been identified as a probiotic with the ability to form spores, which can withstand adverse conditions such as heat, acidity, and other harsh environments. Due to this unique characteristic, Bacillus clausii can survive the acidic environment of the stomach and reach the intestine in an active form, where it exerts its beneficial effects

The Mechanism of Action

Bacillus clausii oral suspension operates by restoring and maintaining a balanced gut flora. The gastrointestinal tract is home to a complex community of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being. Stress, poor dietary habits, antibiotic use, and various other factors can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to gastrointestinal disturbances.

When ingested, Bacillus clausii colonizes the gut and competes with harmful bacteria for nutrients and space, thereby promoting a healthier gut environment. It also produces antimicrobial substances, such as bacteriocins, which directly inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. Furthermore, Bacillus clausii has been shown to stimulate the production of immunoglobulins, which enhance the immune response and help fight off infections.

Uses of Bacillus clausii Oral Suspension

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Bacillus clausii oral suspension is commonly used to alleviate symptoms associated with gastrointestinal disorders. These disorders include acute diarrhoea, chronic diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Clinical trials have demonstrated that Bacillus clausii can reduce the duration and severity of diarrhoea episodes, making it an effective adjuvant treatment.

 Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhoea (AAD): One of the most common side effects of antibiotic use is diarrhoea, which occurs due to the disruption of the gut microbiota. Bacillus clausii has been shown to reduce the risk of AAD by maintaining the balance of the gut microbiota during antibiotic therapy.

Prevention of Recurrent Respiratory Tract Infections (RTIs): Bacillus clausii has immune-modulating properties that may help reduce the recurrence of respiratory tract infections, such as common colds and flu.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Some studies suggest that Bacillus clausii may provide relief from IBS symptoms, such as bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort, although further research is needed to establish its efficacy.

Allergies and Atopic Dermatitis: Early research indicates that Bacillus clausii might help in managing allergic conditions and atopic dermatitis due to its immunomodulatory effects.

Dosage and Administration of Bacillus clausii oral suspension

The dosage of Bacillus clausii oral suspension can vary depending on the patient’s age, condition, and severity of symptoms. It is crucial to follow the healthcare professional’s advice or the manufacturer’s instructions regarding dosage and administration.

In general, the oral suspension is available in single-dose vials or multi-dose bottles. It is usually taken orally, directly or mixed with water or other beverages. Shake the bottle well before use to ensure an even distribution of the spores.

For adults and children, the recommended dosage may range from 1 to 2 vials per day, divided into two to three doses. Children under two years of age may require a lower dosage. Always consult a healthcare professional, especially when administering Bacillus clausii to infants or young children.

Sanzyme Biologics expertise in manufacturing Bacillus clausii oral suspension

If you are seeking a reliable and experienced partner for private label manufacturing of Bacillus clausii oral suspension, with a proven track record in the pharmaceutical industry, Sanzyme Biologics is your go-to solution for high-quality probiotic products. As a leading contract manufacturer, we understand the critical importance of producing safe, effective, and compliant products that meet your brand’s unique requirements.

Expertise in Probiotic Formulations:   At Sanzyme Biologics, our team of skilled scientists and researchers are well-versed in probiotic formulations and the specific needs of Bacillus clausii oral suspension production. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures throughout the manufacturing process. From strain selection and culture development to formulation and packaging, every step is carefully optimized to ensure the highest quality end product.

Flexible and Customizable Solutions: We understand that each brand has its own identity and target market. With our private label manufacturing services, you have the flexibility to customize the Bacillus clausii oral suspension to align perfectly with your brand’s vision and objectives. Our team works closely with you to understand your requirements and offer tailored solutions, including variations in dosage, packaging, and product presentation.

Quality Assurance and Compliance: At Sanzyme Biologics, quality assurance is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to adhering to the highest industry standards and regulations. Our manufacturing facilities are equipped with cutting-edge technologies and comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Additionally, our team of experts ensures that each batch of Bacillus clausii oral suspension undergoes rigorous testing for potency, purity, and safety, providing you and your customers with peace of mind.

Efficient Production and Timely Delivery: Time is of the essence in the fast-paced pharmaceutical industry, and we understand the importance of timely delivery. With streamlined production processes and an efficient supply chain, we strive to meet your manufacturing deadlines promptly without compromising on quality. Our dedication to meeting timelines ensures that your brand can launch and distribute Bacillus clausii oral suspension products to the market with confidence.

Regulatory Support: Navigating the regulatory landscape can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Sanzyme Biologics provides comprehensive regulatory support to ensure that your Bacillus clausii oral suspension complies with all applicable regulations and requirements. Our team is well-versed in regulatory frameworks across various regions, enabling us to help you obtain the necessary certifications and approvals for seamless market entry.

Long-Term Partnership: Choosing Sanzyme Biologics as your private label manufacturing partner means forging a long-term collaboration. We prioritize building strong and lasting relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support even after product delivery. As your trusted partner, we are committed to helping your brand grow and succeed in the competitive probiotics market.

When it comes to private label manufacturing of Bacillus clausii oral suspension, Sanzyme Biologics stands as a dependable and experienced partner. Our expertise in probiotic formulations, commitment to quality and compliance, flexible and customizable solutions, and efficient production processes make us the ideal choice for your brand. With Sanzyme Biologics by your side, you can be confident in delivering top-notch Bacillus clausii oral suspension products that meet the highest industry standards and cater to your target market’s needs. Partner with us today to embark on a successful probiotics journey and achieve mutual success in the thriving healthcare industry.

 

Are probiotics safe for your infants?

Are probiotics safe for your infants?

The human gastrointestinal (GI) tract represents one of the largest interfaces (250–400 m2) between the host, environmental factors and antigens in the human body. The collection of bacteria, archaea and eukarya colonising the GI tract is termed the ‘gut microbiota’ and has co-evolved with the host over thousands of years to form an intricate and mutually beneficial relationship.

The development of the microbiota is generally believed to begin from birth, although this dogma is challenged by a limited number of studies in which microbes were detected in womb tissues, such as the placenta. After birth, the GI tract is rapidly colonised, with life events such as illness, antibiotic treatment and changes in diet causing chaotic shifts in the microbiota.

In early stages of development, the microbiota is generally low in diversity and is dominated by two main phyla, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. During the first year of life, the microbial diversity increases, and the microbiota composition converges towards a distinct adult-like microbial profile with temporal patterns that are unique to each infant. By around 2.5 years of age, the composition, diversity and functional capabilities of the infant microbiota resemble those of adult microbiota. In more recent years, we’ve come to understand the importance of gut microbes and their role in regulating the immune system. The early microbiome is what trains your immune system. This is extremely important because it is what helps prevent disease and fight infection. Babies have a very clean system, so helping build up their gut health will allow their microbiome to more effectively manage irritants, toxins and other threats. Good gut health not only controls illness but also influences the development of other organs, such as the brain, skin, liver, and kidneys. All of this is vital to the lifetime of better health.

Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that balance the pathogenic bacteria in our bodies. They are found in different foods, supplements etc. A daily dose of probiotics helps improve gut health and each strain serve a specific role for creating balanced system. Some of the ways in which probiotics help infants are:

  • Boosted Immunity – Over 80% of our immune system is in our gut, making this the center of our health & wellness. Balancing your babies gut flora will improve their ability to handle illness, deal with inflammation and improve digestion.
  • Ease colic or Reflux – The imbalance of microbiota has adverse effects on babies. Colic, reflux, irregularity of the bowls or constipation can all come from poor gut health.
  • Reducing risk of obesity and Asthma –  Low levels of healthy bacteria in the GI tract can put people at a greater risk for obesity and asthma. Using a daily probiotic supplement can help reduce the risk of these issues later in life.

Factors Shaping the GI Microbiota
Feeding methods can also affect the abundance of some bacterial groups in the gut microbiota of infants. For example,fucosylated oligosaccharides present in human milk can be utilised by Bifidobacterium longum and several species of Bacteroides allowing them to outcompete other bacteria such as E. coli and Clostridium perfringens. Whilst the abundance of Bifidobacterium spp. in breast-fed infant microbiota is typically high this is reduced in formula-fed infants. Furthermore, formula-fed infant microbiota has an increased diversity and altered levels of other groups such as E. coli, Clostridium difficile, Bacteroides fragilis and lactobacilli. Several environmental factors have been implicated in shaping the microbiota , such as antibiotics but not host-targeted drugs, shape the physiology and gene expression of the active human gut microbiome . Antibiotic treatment dramatically disrupts both short- and long-term microbial balance, including decreases in the richness and diversity of the community. The exact effects and the time for recovery of the microbiota following antibiotic administration appear to be individual-dependent.

Treatment of acute Diarrhea and necrotizing Colic in Infants
Acute diarrhea is a burdensome disease with potentially harmful consequences, especially in childhood. Diarrhea refers to the abrupt onset of three or more loose or liquid stools per day. More specifically, acute diarrhea is defined as an abnormally frequent discharge of semi-solid or fluid fecal matter from the bowel, lasting less than 14 days. Although it is a preventable disease, acute Diarrhea remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide, resulting in 525,000 deaths per year among those younger than five years. Most of these mortalities occur in developing countries. Currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends treatment of acute childhood diarrhea with oral rehydration salts (ORS) and continued feeding for the prevention and treatment of dehydration, as well as zinc supplementation to shorten the duration and severity of the diarrheal episode. Probiotics are living micro-organisms that, upon ingestion in certain numbers, exert health benefits beyond inherent general nutrition. It has been suggested that probiotics modulate the immune response, produce antimicrobial agents, and compete in nutrient uptake and adhesion sites with pathogens. The European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) and the European Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (ESPID) currently recommend the use of Saccharomyces boulardii in the management of children with acute Diarrhea as an adjunct to rehydration therapy. Also, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials conducted by Sanofi Aventis GMbh found Bacillus clausii to be an effective therapeutic option in acute child diarrhea. (Nutrients 2018, 10, 1074).

Future Perspectives
In conclusion, newborn and children possess less diverse and an unstable gut microbial composition which is more susceptible to variations caused by external factors. Due to these considerations, the use of probiotics for preventive or therapeutic agents is an established fact for some enteric diseases such as acute diarrhea and NEC, but it can be feasible for several diseases which are not apparently linked to the GIT microbiota composition, such as obesity and neurologic diseases. Unfortunately, most of the experimental evidences for these diseases regard in vitro studies, cell line experiments and, in some cases, animal experimental model researches. When these preliminary results are consolidated, clinical intervention trials using various strains possessing the GRAS and the QPS status can be planned to achieve definitive results on humans.

 

About Sanzyme Biologics:

Sanzyme Biologics is a 50 year old biotechnology company based in Hyderabad, India. Sanzyme specialises in the production of probiotic bacteria. Sanzyme Biologics has obtained Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) approval relating to use of Bacillus coagulans SNZ 1969™ in infant formula. The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued the company with a GRAS Notice known as a ‘no objection letter’. It states that it has no questions regarding the safety of Bacillus coagulans SNZ 1969™ spore preparation marketed by Sanzyme Biologics when used in infant formula.

How Probiotics support your immune system?

During the unprecedented Coronavirus pandemic, we’ve seen a renewed focus on ways to “support your immune system.” The obvious question is: can probiotics, by helping your gut be as healthy as possible, also support your immune system? Although probiotics are proven to help digestion and optimal gut health, recent studies indicate probiotics also protect and enhance your immune system.

The primary reason probiotics, by strengthening your gut health, help your immune system function better is simple. Your gut and immune system have a symbiotic relationship. For example, 70-80% of your immune cells are located in your gut.The health of your gut directly impacts the overall health of your entire immune system.

Healthy guts make healthy immune systems. Conversely, compromised, unhealthy guts erode the effectiveness of immune system function. That leads to potentially more illnesses like common colds, flu, and many other infections – potentially even COVID-19.

Scientists have known for years that our microbiome helps keep overactive immune responses (leading to conditions like IBS(Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and other autoimmune diseases in check. However, they were still unsure of the exact mechanisms that drive this interaction.

Preventive Strategies against Viral Infections

Recently, the risk of viral infection has dramatically increased owing to changes in human ecology such as global warming and an increased geographical movement of people and goods. However, the efficacy of vaccines and remedies for infectious diseases is limited by the high mutation rates of viruses, especially, RNA viruses. Various strategies, such as those using vaccines and antibiotics, have been exploited for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, but infection control has not yet been achieved at a sufficient level.

It is generally acknowledged that the main prophylactic measures against these infectious diseases are vaccinations and everyday hygienic behaviors such as gargling and hand-washing. Nagatake et al. outlined that gargling with a povidone-iodine solution was effective to reduce the incidence of episodes of acute respiratory infections, since colonized bacteria were destroyed by gargling. Heijne et al. reported that enhanced hygienic measures including proper hand cleaning using soap and disposable paper towels effectively limited the transmission. Although vaccines are promising prophylactics against influenza infection, their efficacy is limited by the frequent and fast mutation of RNA viruses. In the present situation, without an effective vaccine or medicine, the prevention of viral transmission must rely mainly on basic measures including quarantine and thorough hand washing after physical contact.

With the progress of research on the relationship between the microbiota and diseases in recent years, commensal intestinal bacteria have been investigated for their ability to modulate the host immune system, not only in healthy individuals but also in those who are suffering from a wide range of diseases. It has been revealed that commensal bacteria also regulate regulatory T cells, type 3 innate lymphoid cells, and T helper 17 cells through the recognition of the bacteria themselves or their metabolites/products by the immune cells and greatly affect mucosal immunity.

Probiotics act on both the innate and acquired immune systems and have the potency to decrease the severity of infections in the gastrointestinal and upper respiratory tracts. Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that have health benefits for the host, and they are generally consumed as a component of fermented foods such as yoghurt, cheese, and pickles or as supplements.

For example, oral administration of Saccharomyces boulardii and rehydration significantly shortened duration of diarrhea in acute rotavirus gastroenteritis children in Bolivia, compared with control rehydration alone. Detailed mechanism was not available.

Enhancing host intestinal immune responses may be an important mechanism for Saccharomyces boulardii -mediated protection against diarrheal illnesses.

Also, most pathogens enter the body through mucosal surfaces. Mucosal immunization, a non-invasive needle-free route, often stimulates a mucosal immune response that is both effective against mucosal and systemic pathogens. The development of mucosally administered heat-stable vaccines with long shelf life would therefore significantly enhance immunization programs in developing countries by avoiding the need for a cold chain or systemic injections. Currently, recombinant vaccine carriers are being used for antigen delivery. Engineering Bacillus subtilis for use as a non-invasive and heat stable antigen delivery system has proven successful. Bacterial spores protected by multiple layers of protein are known to be robust and resistant to desiccation. The use of Bacillus subtilis to express antigens that can be administered either intranasally or sublingually is providing new insights in the area of mucosal vaccines
(Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2012 Jul 1; 8(7): 979–986.)

In February, 2020, China’s National Health Commission and National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine suggested the use of probiotics in patients with severe COVID-19.
(Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol.2020 Published Online April 24, 2020)

Conclusion
Probiotic treatment is a promising research arena in the medical sciences, since probiotics alone, or together with prebiotics, have potential in the modulation of gut microbiota and immune responses in the host. However, a number of scientific reports are identical in terms of the role of probiotics in preventing obesity, inflammatory diseases, and cancer. Probiotics have a positive influence on the innate immunity, exerting several antiviral properties. Although there are insufficient research publications regarding how probiotics induce immunomodulatory effects. Preliminary data obtained by various research laboratories have been encouraging, but numerous randomized clinical studies will be required to clearly establish the potential of probiotics in preventing and treating various diseases. Such studies will allow identification of the probiotics that are best suited to various diseases.

Introduction to Sanzyme’s Bacillus Subtilis SNZ 1972

Bacillus subtilis is a rod shaped, probiotic bacterium. It is found in the soil like most members of the Bacillus family and the gastrointestinal tract of ruminants and humans. Bacillus subtilis bacteria secrete commercially important industrial enzymes such as amylase, protease,pullulanase, chitinase, xylanase, lipase, among others. Bacillus subtilis is also responsible for producing antibiotics like bacitracin (effective against Gram-positive bacteria), polymyxin (affective against Gram-negative bacteria), difficidin (a broader spectrum), subtilin, and mycobacillin.

Bacillus subtilis SNZ 1972 was originally isolated from the soil by Sanzyme Biologics after extensive screening and characterization of various strains of Bacillus subtilis. By virtue of ability to form stress-resistant shield (endospore) Bacillus subtilis SNZ 1972 can protect itself against many stress situations such as acidic, alkaline, osmotic, or oxidative conditions, and heat. It survives through all manufacturing processes and it does not show decrement in viability of cell.

Safety of Bacillus subtilis SNZ 1972 is verified by a series of in vitro and in vivo studies. Based on these scientific procedures, Bacillus subtilis SNZ 1972 spores received self-affirmed GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status and it is intended for use as a food ingredient for consumers in the following food categories: bakery, cereal bars, dairy products and vegetable and fruit juices. Bacillus subtilis SNZ 1972 has also been studied for healthy digestion

 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.