Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. Acidophilus) is a type of bacteria often used as a dietary supplement. It is available enriched in food products, such as yogurt, as well as in tablet and capsule form.
Significance
L. acidophilus is normally found in the human intestinal tract and the vagina. L. acidophilus is typically referred to as a "probiotic." Probiotic is a generic term given to "good" bacteria and other organisms that have therapeutic uses.
Function
L. acidophilus uses include the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections and gut-blockage function. Treatment methods include oral supplements or suppositories.
Theories/Speculation
One main function of L. acidophilus is that it theoretically replaces helpful bacteria that may have been destroyed by antibiotics. Supplements do not require the approval of the Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, the claims of these products are not strictly regulated nor supported by the FDA.
Research
As of 2009, research supporting the claimed benefits of L. acidophilus is limited, and therefore, inconclusive.
Expert Insight
According to the National Institutes of Health, the only L. acidophilus treatment that has received support of multiple human studies is the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.
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