Yeast infections are caused by a bacterial overgrowth--generally Candida albicans, a specific type of yeast-like microorganism. Often yeast infections are the result of taking antibiotics, which kill both the bad and helpful bacteria that stop candida from growing out of control. Taking probiotics, or "friendly" bacteria, can replenish beneficial bacteria and restore balance, helping to fight your yeast infection. Acidophilus, a type of Lactobacillus probiotic, can be used to treat and prevent yeast infections.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are living microorganisms that help everything from digestion to your immune system. There are two types of probiotics--Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium--and within each type there are several species and strains. At any time there are 100 trillion different bacteria living in and on your body. Beneficial bacteria help keep less friendly bacteria in check; but illness, infection, certain medications and antibiotic use can upset the balance between good and bad microorganisms, allowing potentially harmful bacteria to flourish.
Vaginal Yeast Infections
Sometimes specific ailments must be treated with a particular strain or species of bacteria. Acidophilus is a type of Lactobacillus bacteria that is often found in yogurt, but can also be taken as a supplement. According to the National Institutes of Health, Lactobacillus acidophilus suppositories inserted in your vagina twice daily for seven days can help treat bacterial vaginosis. Vaginal suppositories should contain 1 billion live cells. Eating the probiotic seems to be less effective than using a vaginal suppository. Probiotic treatment is most effective when combined with conventional anti-fungal medications.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Acidophilus can also be used to treat yeast infections in other areas. Oral thrush is another symptom of a candida overgrowth--as are jock itch, diaper rash and athlete's foot. Taking acidophilus orally can help treat thrush. A 1994 study published in "Microbios" found that Lactobacillus acidophilus inhibited the growth of candida in 75 percent of tested samples. The Mayo Clinic says that eating unsweetened yogurt or taking acidophilus supplements can lessen your infection and help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria.
Other Probiotics
Two other types of Lactobacillus bacteria--Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus--can help prevent future outbreaks of bacterial vaginosis, or at least lengthen the amount of time between outbreaks. Lactobacillus rhamnosus also helps prevent diarrhea caused by a number of different things, from traveling to chemotherapy. Some strains of Lactobacillus can help relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome--gas, bloating and cramps. Always consult your physician before adding any type of supplement to your diet.
References
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine; An Introduction to Probiotics; January 2007
- MedlinePlus: Lactobacillus
- MedlinePlus: Vaginal yeast infection
- "Microbios"; Inhibition of Candida Albicans by Lactobacillus Acidophilus: Evidence for the Involvement of a Peroxidase System; N Fitzsimmons, DR Berry; 1994
- MayoClinic.com; Oral thrush: Treatment and drugs; August 2009
