Acidophilus is a bacteria that is most commonly found in yogurt. It is available over the counter as a supplement and has many health benefits. Adding acidophilus to your diet can help prevent or treat episodes of diarrhea and yeast infections.
Description and Sources
Acidophilus belongs to a class of beneficial bacteria called probiotics and may refer to any bacteria strain from the species Lactobacillus acidophilus, or L. acidophilus. More than 50 strains of L. acidophilus exist. Acidophilus ferments foods to which it is added, breaking down sugar into lactic acid, alcohol, and carbon dioxide. It gives yogurt a slightly tangy flavor and adds some sweetness. Acidophilus can be found in some milk, particularly buttermilk, and most yogurt. In the human body, acidophilus is found in the mouth, intestines, and vagina and aids in the production of vitamin K .
Gastrointestinal Benefits
Acidophilus can shorten episodes of diarrhea and is protective against the E. coli bacterial infection. A study in the journal "Pediatrics" showed acidophilus was a safe alternative treatment for acute infectious diarrhea. Viral and bacterial-induced diarrhea can be alleviated by acidophilus. And in people who are lactose intolerant, or deficient in the enzyme lactase, acidophilus improves the ability to digest lactose, according to the "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition."
Antibiotics and Yeast Overgrowth
Oral antibiotics used to kill harmful bacteria can also kill the beneficial, naturally occurring bacteria present in the mouth, vagina and intestine. In the mouth and vagina, this can upset the normal pH, causing overgrowth of the yeast Candidia albicans, which in turn can cause yeast infections. Symptoms include itching, burning and dryness. Acidophilus inhibits overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans.
Acidophilus Supplements
You can easily add acidophilus to your diet by increasing your intake of yogurt. Over-the-counter supplements can provide you with high doses of acidophilus without adding extra calories. Acidophilus supplements last longest in the refrigerator.
References
- "Pediatrics"; Lactobacillus Therapy for Acute Infectious Diarrhea in Children: A Meta-analysis;Cornelius Van Niel, MD, et al.; April 2002
- "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Lactic Acid Bacteria and the Human Gastrointestinal Tract; H. Hove, et al.; May 1999
- "British Journal of Nutrition"; Enhancement of Natural and Acquired Immunity by Lactobacillus Rhamnosus (Hn001), Lactobacillus Acidophilus (Hn017) and Bifidobacterium Lactis (Hn019); H.S. Gill, et al.; February 2000
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