Lactobacillus Acidophilus, or L. acidophilus, is a commonly used probiotic. Known as "good" bacteria, probiotics like acidophilus are used to protect against "bad" bacteria that can multiply in the intestines and vagina, and cause a variety of health problems. Consumers today have many different sources of acidophilus from which to choose.
Dairy Products
Yogurt contains live acidophilus cultures, kefir and milk fortified with acidophilus, are primary dietary sources of this probiotic. To get maximum probiotic benefit, consume these products cold rather than warming them up prior to eating or drinking.
Soybean Products
Miso, a Japanese condiment, and tempeh, a traditional Indonesian food, both contain soybeans and require fermenting, a process that naturally grows acidophilus. Miso combines soybeans and rice with salt and a mold culture, where it then sits in a cedar vat to age for up to three years. Similarly, makers of tempeh mix soybeans with rice or millet and wrap the mixture in banana leaves to ferment for up to 24 hours.
Supplement Options
If you are lactose intolerant or don't like the taste of miso or tempeh, you can also opt to buy an acidophilus supplement at any pharmacy or health food store. If you can easily swallow pills, look for this probiotic in freeze-dried capsule form. If you are giving this to a child or prefer to sprinkle it over your food or into your drink, acidophilus also comes in freeze-dried granule and powder form, as well as in liquid form. Dosing amounts vary depending on your age and the ailment being treated, so consult with your doctor before taking.
Usage Tips
Although acidophilus does not spoil following brief exposure to heat, refrigerate your supplement for long-term use. For maximum benefit, take acidophilus before a meal on an empty stomach to allow it to pass through your body at a point when your stomach acids are at their lowest point.
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