Last verified: 6 days ago
LactoSpore (Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856)
Also known as: Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856, Weizmannia coagulans MTCC 5856, LactoSpore, B. coagulans MTCC 5856
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Spore-forming probiotic shown to reduce gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort in adults.
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What it does
LactoSpore is a trademarked, spore-forming probiotic strain (Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856) that survives stomach acid and bile to reach the gut intact. Clinical trials show it significantly...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
2 billion CFU/spores daily based on study doses
What the Science Says
LactoSpore is a trademarked, spore-forming probiotic strain (Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856) that survives stomach acid and bile to reach the gut intact. Clinical trials show it significantly reduces functional gas, bloating, and overall digestive symptoms in adults experiencing gut discomfort. At 2 billion spores per day over 4 weeks, it also modestly increases beneficial gut bacteria like Faecalibacterium and Prevotella without disrupting a healthy microbiome.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to dramatically reshape your gut microbiome if you're already healthy. No strong evidence it treats depression or serious GI disease on its own. Don't expect overnight results — studies ran 4 weeks minimum. Not a replacement for a balanced diet or medical treatment.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Significantly reduces functional gas and bloating in adults with digestive discomfort.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: 2 billion spores/day
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Lowers overall gastrointestinal symptom scores including indigestion and abdominal discomfort.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: 2 billion spores/day
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Supports beneficial gut bacteria without disrupting a healthy microbiome.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 2 billion CFU/day
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Maintains consistent strain identity and potency over 3 years of commercial production.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Good — spore-forming structure protects the bacteria through stomach acid and bile, allowing it to reach the intestine alive. Confirmed by in vitro gastric acid and bile salt resistance testing.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most studies are small (30–70 participants) and short-term (4 weeks), limiting confidence in long-term effects.
- Several studies appear to be funded or conducted by parties affiliated with the manufacturer — check for independent replication.
- One abstract (PMID 29997457) had incomplete data available, limiting full assessment of its depression-related claims.
- Products listing 'LactoSpore' may vary in actual CFU count at time of consumption — look for guaranteed potency at expiration, not manufacture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does LactoSpore (Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856) do?
Spore-forming probiotic shown to reduce gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort in adults.
What is the effective dose of LactoSpore (Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856)?
2 billion CFU/spores daily based on study doses
Is LactoSpore (Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856) safe?
Most studies are small (30–70 participants) and short-term (4 weeks), limiting confidence in long-term effects.
What doesn't LactoSpore (Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856) do?
Not proven to dramatically reshape your gut microbiome if you're already healthy.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-08-27