“Probiotics” is the general term that describes beneficial microorganisms that live in the intestines and in a woman’s vaginal area. Those organisms are bacteria and yeasts that battle disease-causing agents to keep you healthy. Many species of probiotics inhabit your body. Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most widely available as a dietary supplement. If you are concerned that your natural supply of probiotics may be depleted, consult your doctor before supplementing them.
Types of Probiotics
Probiotics species are too plentiful to name them all. One beneficial yeast that lives in your body is called Saccharomyces boulardii. Two families of bacteria, Lactobacillus and Bifobacterium, also provide assorted species of healing organisms such as acidophilus to maintain your physical well-being.
Probiotics Uses
Probiotic supplements, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration as medicine, although scientists have studied them and found that supplementation may have benefits. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, probiotics may treat viral diarrhea, especially when caused by a rotavirus. Acidophilus, in particular, seems to ease diarrhea when antibiotic use creates it. Probiotics may also treat and prevent vaginal and urinary-tract infections. Evidence shows that skin inflammations in children and irritable bowel syndrome might also ease after supplementation with the good bacteria and yeasts.
Precautions
Lactobacillus acidophilus in particular may cause gas, bloating and even the diarrhea it is expected to stop. The bacterium might also start an infection in individuals who have artificial heart valves. Probiotics in general may prove to be allergens to some individuals, overstimulating their immune system. The organisms also have the potential to cause cell mutation with unknown consequences.
Drug Interactions
It is possible for Lactobacillus acidophilus to negatively affect and be affected when taken concurrently with certain medications. The bacterium causes your system to absorb the drug sulfasalazine more quickly than normal, but it is not clear what effect the fast metabolism of the colon-inflammation drug has on your health. Antibiotics, designed to kill any bacteria, can also destroy Lactobacillus acidophilus. Taking them two hours apart may prevent the death of good bacteria.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Eat Right--Probiotics
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lactobacillus Acidophilus; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; June 22, 2009
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: An Introduction to Probiotics; Carol Wells, Ph.D., et al.; August 2008
- Drugs.com: Acidophilus
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Possible Interactions with: Lactobacillus Acidophilus; Ernest B. Hawkins, M.S., et al.; June 7, 2007
- MedlinePlus: Lactobacillus
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