Acidophilus Bifidus Facts

The intestines and vaginal area have yeasts and bacteria that neutralize disease-causing organisms. The general term for those health agents is "probiotics," substances also available in some fermented and pickled foods, as well as dietary supplements. Acidophilus is a beneficial bacterium in the Lactobacillus family, and bifidus belongs to the Bifidobacterium clan. Some manufacturers combine both bacteria in one supplement sold as acidophilus bifidus. Consult your doctor before using the product.

General Benefits

According to Dr. Nicole Sundene, a naturopathic doctor in private practice in Arizona, acidophilus and bifidus kill pathogens. They also facilitate nutrient absorption during digestion and help your body eliminate waste. The two bacteria also strengthen your immune system and contribute to normal cholesterol.

Acidophilus' Role

Acidophilus acidifies your intestines, creating an environment where disease-causing bacteria cannot thrive. As a supplement, acidophilus is promoted for treating yeast infections, antibiotic-induced diarrhea and urinary-tract infections.

Bifidus' Function

Bifidus helps your body to transform sugars into energy. The bacterium also breaks down undigested matter for your body to get rid of it through the digestive tract. In addition, bifidus adds lactic, acetic, formic and succinic acids to your gastrointestinal area to keep harmful bacteria from thriving.

Supplementation Risks

Probiotic supplements may disturb your digestive system, causing gas and bloating. The bacteria may also reproduce excessively, especially if your immune system is impaired. If that occurs, you might develop an infection caused by the good bacteria. In addition, probiotics can trigger your immune system to attack your own body. They also carry the risk of genetic mutations within the cells, says the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

How to Take It

Follow your doctor's instructions for taking an acidophilus bifidus supplement. Manufacturers also list general use guidelines on their product labels. One company recommends one to two capsules of its acidophilus bifidus supplement up to twice daily on an empty stomach.