Also known as lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus is a type of "friendly" bacteria that naturally exists in the digestive tract and the vagina. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" by nutritionist Phyllis A. Balch, flora in a healthy colon should consist of at least 85 percent lactobacilli and 15 percent coliform bacteria. However, in today's sugar-consuming society, these percentages are often reversed. This condition often causes gas, bloating, toxicity, constipation and a candida overgrowth, which often leads to yeast infections and a decreased absorption of nutrients from foods that are consumed.
Sources
Made from milk that is curdled by bacteria, lactobacillus acidophilus is found naturally in yogurt products. Fresh, unsweetened yogurt is the best source because it does not contain sugar, which can work against these natural cultures. Available in tablet, capsule or powdered forms, effective lactobacillus acidophilus supplements contain high numbers of organisms. Balch recommends choosing a supplement that has a single strain of lactobacillus with a count of at least 1 billion organisms per gram for the best results.
Applications
Common applications for lactobacillus acidophilus supplementation include treating or preventing yeast infections of the vagina or mouth, treating diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics, as well as for treating urinary tract infections. Containing antifungal properties, lactobacillus acidophilus helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and aids digestion by enhancing the proper absorption of nutrients.
How It Works
When proteins are digested by the body, lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, enzymes, B-vitamins and antibiotic substances are produced. However, when the flora of the intestines is low in lactobacillus bacteria, this process may become disturbed and cause discomfort as pathogenic substances are not being properly flushed out of the body. By helping to maintain an acidic PH level in the body, lactobacillus acidophilus helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the stomach, intestines and the vagina.
Instructions
As lactobacillus can die at high temperatures, supplements are best kept in the refrigerator. Take lactobacillus on an empty stomach in the morning and one hour before each meal. If taking antibiotics, do not take the supplement and the antibiotic simultaneously.
Precaution
Those who are allergic to milk products must be sure to choose a non-dairy form of lactobacillus supplement. It is best to talk to your doctor before taking lactobacillus acidophilus if there is any other pre-existing medical conditions or allergies present. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also speak with their doctor before starting a course of lactobacillus supplementation. As is with all herbal supplements, the use of lactobacillus acidophilus has not been FDA approved or proven to treat any disease and should not be substituted for prescription medications.
References
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing; Phyllis A. Balch; 2000
- Drugs.com
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