Lactobacillus acidophilus is a bacteria naturally occurring in the human body, especially in the intestines and vagina. Drugs.com explains that this bacteria helps maintain an acidic environment, preventing bad bacteria from causing disease. It is often called a probiotic. Lactobacillus acidophilus is used as a supplement to help restore healthy levels of bacteria, but has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration for effectiveness and safety. Consulting with a health care professional prior to taking this probiotic is recommended.
Function
Lactobacillus acidophilus, or L. acidophilus, helps protect against harmful bacteria in the intestines and vagina in a variety of ways. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, one of the ways this supplement does this is by helping to create an environment unsuitable for bad bacteria when food is broken down in the intestines. It also helps produce vitamin K, lactase, and anti-microbial substances like bacteriocin, says MayoClinic.com.
Forms
Lactobacillus acidophilus can be consumed in many forms. Tablets and capsules are common ways of obtaining this bacteria, and some yogurts contain live cultures of it as well. There are also vaginal and anal suppositories, according to MayoClinic.com. This bacteria should be used with children only after consulting with a pediatrician, says the MayoClinic.com, especially if the child is three years of age or younger.
Benefits
This probiotic is used as a remedy for several ailments. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that L. acidophilus suppositories have been shown to treat bacterial vaginosis successfully, and some studies have found that it is effective in preventing vaginal yeast infections, although study results are mixed. Results regarding L. acidophilus' effectiveness against diarrhea are also mixed, with some studies finding it effective in preventing traveler's diarrhea, and others not, says the University of Maryland. Diarrhea related to antibiotic use may be alleviated by using probiotics like L. acidophilus, but a physician should be consulted prior to using these supplements, says the University of Maryland.
Potential
Other ailments L. acidophilus may be effective in treating include lactose intolerance, allergies, high cholesterol and hepatic encephalopathy, says MayoClinic.com. The University of Maryland adds childhood eczema, chronic constipation and immune system enhancement to the possible benefits of L. acidophilus. More research needs to be performed to yield definitive results.
Warning
Prior to taking L. acidophilus, individuals should consult a health care professional. According to Drugs.com, women who are pregnant or breast feeding and individuals with known medical conditions or any chronic health problems should talk with a physician to ensure the safety of this supplement for them. The physician should be aware of any other supplements or medications being consumed to avoid any possible adverse interactions.
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