The human body has naturally occurring bacteria species that inhabit the digestive system. These "friendly" bacteria are vital to the proper functioning of the immune system and the digestive system. They keep people healthy by supplying essential nutrients and making the body an inhospitable place for disease-causing bacteria, yeasts, fungi and parasites. Lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidus are some of the bacteria that normally inhabit the intestines. Adding them as supplements to your diet can add benefits to your health.
Acidophilus for Immunity
There are many different species of bacteria used as dietary supplements. Combining species such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidus achieves the best results. This mixture, known as acidophilus bifidus, alleviates many conditions associated with antibiotic use, poor digestion and a compromised immune system. The acidophilus bifidus bacteria help the body produce vitamin K, B vitamins, lactase and other chemical aids to digestion, and anti-microbials. They break down toxins produced by "unfriendly" microorganisms and secrete proteins that stimulate the immune system.
How Acidophilus Works
Acidophilus bifidus can help stop infections before they start. The microorganisms stimulate the immune system and protect against the movement of harmful microorganism through the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream. This decreases susceptibility to allergies and infections, digestive complaints, diarrhea and Candida overgrowth. According to Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist
Michael Picco, acidophilus bifidus may also shorten the duration of intestinal infections and help in the fight against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colon cancer and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Acidophilus and Antibiotics
Taking acidophilus supplements or eating acidophilus-rich foods can also help restore the normal balance of intestinal bacteria after taking a course of antibiotics. Although antibiotics generally do a good job of getting rid of infections, they can have debilitating side effects that disrupts the normal balance of bacteria in the digestive system. This is because they kill friendly bacteria along with the unwanted bacteria that make you sick. Taking acidophilus bifidus species can help repopulate the digestive tract with beneficial bacteria.
Sources of Acidophilus Bifidus
Acidophilus bifidus can be found in fresh, unpasteurized yogurt or in acidophilus milk. Pasteurization kills bacteria. Acidophilus bifidus is also available in capsules, powdered, or as a liquid extract. These are the forms of choice if you have an allergy to dairy products. In order to be effective, acidophilus products must contain active cultures, so it is important to find good quality sources with high manufacturing standards. When using yogurt or milk, check the label to make sure that you're getting live cultures. Keep all acidophilus products refrigerated to maintain their viability.
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