What Is Lactobacterium Acidophilus?

The human intestines and vagina naturally contain bacteria. The role of the bacteria is to protect the body against bad bacteria, pathogens that causes infection and illness. Unlike antibiotics that cannot differentiate between good and bad bacteria, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains that lactobacterium acidophilus, a good form of bacteria, "knows" the difference. In fact, lactobacterium acidophilus is the "friendly bacteria."

Misconceptions

The thought of bacteria often drudges up a mental image of disease and infection. Unfortunately, this misconception makes it difficult for some to grasp the idea that there are truly good bacteria, such as lactobacterium acidophilus, within the human body. According to the Argonne National Laboratory Division of Educational Programs, without good bacteria, the pathogens would win. In some cases the pathogens do come out on top, especially in someone who has a weak immune system or not enough good bacteria.

Identification

Lactobacterium acidophilus, lactobacillus acidophilus, or L. acidophilus, is a type of bacteria and probiotic. Mayo Clinic.com explains that probiotics are living medicinal organisms. Probiotics are so small that they are only viewable under a microscope. Lactobacterium acidophilus probiotics occur naturally in some yogurts, unfermented and fermented milks and soy products. In some cases, manufacturers may add probiotics to foods during processing. Lactobacterium acidophilus is also available in capsule and powder form.

Function

Lactobacterium acidophilus lives and thrives in the small intestines, where it works its magic. According to the Puristat Digestive Wellness Center, it is within the small intestines that the lactobacterium acidophilus congregates and fights the war against any bad bacteria that dare to enter. By maintaining an acidic environment within the body, lactobacterium acidophilus makes it difficult for dangerous pathogens to live, thrive or multiply.

Benefits

It is normal to find bacteria living in vaginal fluids. Under normal circumstances, this good form of bacteria poses no risk of infection. Bacterial vaginosis, a condition denoted by an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the vaginal area, responds to lactobacterium acidophilus. Lactobacterium acidophilus is especially helpful in killing-off the bad bacteria without destroying the good. According to MedlinePlus, lactobacterium produces vitamin K and lactose, along with other antimicrobials including lactocidin, acidolin and acidolphilin. The acidolphilin is the most beneficial to the vagina.

Warnings

While the side effects associated with lactobacterium acidophilus tend to be minor, amounting to little more than gas and bloating, more serious side effects can occur. For this reason, Cigna recommends that you do not take supplements containing lactobacterium acidophilus without speaking to your doctor first. Do not take lactobacterium acidophilus if you are nursing or pregnant. If you develop shortness of breath, hives or swelling of the lips, face, tongue or have difficulty swallowing while taking lactobacterium acidophilus, seek medical attention at once.