Acidophilus is a probiotic supplement that contains live bacteria normally found in your intestinal and genital tracts. Although you normally have beneficial bacteria in your body, certain medications or medical conditions can cause an imbalance of "good" and "bad" bacteria. This can lead to conditions like bacterial vaginosis, diarrhea and yeast infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. Proponents of the use of acidophilus claim that it can both treat these conditions and prevent their recurrence by repopulating your body with beneficial bacteria that boosts immunity. Check with your doctor before using any dietary supplement.
Prevention or Reduction of Diarrhea
Acidophilus is a probiotic supplement that proponents claim repopulates the digestive system, improving its resistance to the effects of invasive bacteria or viruses. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that research evidence supporting the use of probiotics like acidophilus is mixed. A 2010 study published in "Radiation Oncology" found that acidophilus reduced the incidence of diarrhea caused by radiation treatments in patients with malignant cancer. The University of Maryland Medical Center adds that several studies suggest that acidophilus is effective in the prevention of diarrhea that occurs during treatment with antibiotics. Check with your doctor before using a dietary supplement, particularly in conjunction with a conventional medical approach such as antibiotics.
Treatment for Vaginal Infections
Vaginal infections caused by bacteria, also known as bacterial vaginosis, appear to be susceptible to the effects of acidophilus. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, acidophilus supplements and yogurt containing live acidophilus cultures are used to both treat and prevent bacterial vaginosis. Research supporting this use is mixed; however, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences explains that the use of acidophilus to prevent bacterial vaginosis caused by yeast is considered a valid approach. Consuming yogurt and other products that contain live acidophilus cultures is considered relatively safe for regular use. But if you are currently taking medications or have compromised immunity, check with your doctor first.
Improved General Immunity
The integrity of your immune system is directly related to how well it resists the invasion of pathogens that can lead to illness and infection. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some research supports the regular consumption of foods that contain live acidophilus bacteria to improve the functioning of your immune system. Additionally, a 2000 study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition" found that laboratory mice who were fed acidophilus had improved antibody responses to introduced pathogens. Based on this finding, the researchers suggest that supplemental acidophilus may help stimulate immunity and enhance the body's ability to fight pathogens.
Reduced Risk and Treatment of Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition characterized by a rash and can have several different causes, including an immune system response to a perceived allergen. A 2010 study published in "Pediatric Allergy and Immunology" found that supplemental probiotics, including acidophilus, were effective in reducing the risk of development of eczema in infants who are considered at high risk for allergy. The findings in this study suggest an improved immune system response associated with the administration of probiotics.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Lactobacillus Acidophilus
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lactobacillus Acidophilus
- "Radiation Oncology"; Randomized Controlled Trial of Live Lactobacillus Acidophilus...; Imjai Chitapanarux, et al.; 2010
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences: Lactobacillus Acidophilus
- "British Journal of Nutrition"; Enhancement of Natural and Acquired Immunity...; H. S. Gill, et al.; 2000
- FamilyDoctor.org: Eczema: Tips on How to Care for Your Skin
