Lactobacillus acidophilus -- which exist naturally in your intestinal tract -- are probiotics, or "friendly" bacteria; they help create an environment that discourages the growth of disease-causing bacteria. They are also found in yogurt enriched with live L. acidophilus cultures, as well as foods such as tempeh and miso, and are used to treat a variety of conditions. Some people take acidophilus to help control their weight. Although human clinical studies are lacking, there is some animal research that suggests L. acidophilus may be helpful in weight control.
Uses
Lactobacillus acidophilus are used for treating chronic constipation and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease, as well as enhancing the immune system, lowering risk of pollen allergies, reducing childhood eczema and helping to treat high cholesterol. They have also been used for wound healing and are believed to boost energy. Probiotics are often suggested as a supplement to antibiotics to help maintain a healthy gastrointestinal balance, as the latter can kill both friendly and unfriendly bacteria.
Effects
Drugs.com credits acidophilus with suppressing the growth in vitro of both C. and H. pylori, bacteria implicated in gastrointestinal diseases, as well as C. albicans, a yeast that can cause infection. University of Maryland Medical Center reports there is some clinical evidence that acidophilus vaginal suppositories can help treat bacterial vaginosis. Acidophilus' therapeutic properties may be caused by its ability to generate hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid and to alter the adherence of bacteria.
Research
Although more study is needed, there is some scientific research on animals showing that L. acidophilus may help with weight loss. In a clinical study conducted at the University of Georgia and published in the 2008 issue of "Complementary and Alternative Medicine," researchers found that injecting rats with Lactobacillus caused a slight decrease in body weight as well as an increase of leptin, a protein that can reduce hunger and body weight, in the cerebral cortex.
Dosage and Precautions
As well as obtaining L. acidophilus by eating yogurt, you can take it in the form of freeze-dried granules, powders or capsules. According to UMMC, the usual dosage is 1 to 2 billion colony-forming units -- or CFU -- a day. L. acidophilus is generally considered safe, as it is normally found in the human body as well as in foods. However, eating more than 1 to 2 billion CFU a day may cause gas, upset stomach and diarrhea. Due to the risk of a rare infection, people with abnormal or artificial heart valves should avoid L. acidophilus. Consult your doctor before using L. acidophilus.
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