Acidophilus is a type of beneficial bacteria commonly available in milk and yogurt products. Like other types of probiotics, acidophilus might offer digestive benefits by supplementing your intestinal flora. For best results, wait at least two to three hours after taking antibiotics to consume acidophilus, and keep your daily dosage limited to 15 billion colony forming units a day.
Definition
Acidophilus is part of the lactobacillus family of bacteria and has been used to prevent or treat conditions such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, colic, Crohn’s disease, colon inflammation, urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infections and some respiratory conditions. According to MedlinePlus, lactobacillus and other probiotics commonly are used to restore your intestinal flora after taking antibiotics.
Acidophilus and Milk
Acidophilus supplements can be taken with milk, water, juices or other liquids throughout the day. Since the acidophilus used in probiotic supplements typically is formed in milk, it is unlikely that any negative reactions will occur from taking acidophilus with milk. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some studies suggest that consuming milk containing specific strains of lactobacillus might improve the body’s natural immune response. Pill supplements containing acidophilus generally are measured in CFU, or colony forming units, while milk and dairy products tend to list only live cultures on the ingredients label.
Dosage
To prevent or treat diarrhea, keep your acidophilus intake to 1 to 15 billion colony forming units a day. Tablets, powders and freeze-dried capsules of acidophilus generally contain strains that have been grown in milk and might need to be refrigerated to maintain product longevity. While generally considered safe for most people, acidophilus can cause minor digestive symptoms such as gas and upset stomach in some individuals.
Safety Concerns
Individuals currently using sulfasalazine or other ulcerative colitis medications should not take acidophilus. Acdiophilus supplements have not been studies or approved by the FDA, and might cause unknown side effects and reactions in some people. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned with possible interactions acidophilus might have on medicines that you are taking. Always check the expiration date of your acidophilus before consuming.
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