Acidophilus (Lactobacillus Acidophilus)

Acidophilus is most commonly used in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract disorders, recurrent vaginal yeast infections, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome,
and to prevent gas and bloating. Of the 500 species of bacteria living in your digestive tract, only two are considered to be the most beneficial. Both of these strains are Lactobacilli, and probiotic, helping to promote a healthy level of bacteria in the digestive tract. If you eat yogurt, you've digested acidophilus, however the levels are hard to determine in this form. When used therapeutically, an acidophilus pill should contain at least one billion organisms each.

Acidophilus has proven especially effective when used to prevent yeast infections caused by taking antibiotics. The antibiotics that kill the infection they were prescribed for also kill the necessary bacteria in the system to prevent yeast infection and allow the yeast to flourish. A healthy colon should contain 85% Lactobacilli and 14% coliform bacteria. When taking a prescription antibiotic, these healthy levels can be upset, causing diarrhea, constipation, flatulence and poor absorption of essential nutrients. A high acidophilus level creates an environment that is fatal to other dangerous bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella and streptococcus.

Acidophilus is available in natural food substances such as yogurt, but the amount of "live culture" is hard to gauge for therapeutic use. Some yogurt manufacturers don't introduce the acidophilus to their product until after the pasteurization process because heat can reduce the amount of live acidophilus organisms. Therapeutic levels of acidophilus are marketed in capsule, tablet, liquid, powder, suppository and douche form. Acidophilus products should say they contain "live cultures" or "active cultures", and be sure you check the expiration date. Acidophilus needs to be stored in a cool, dry place as heat and cold can kill the live bacteria.

Precautions:

1. Douching with acidophilus should only be done during times of vaginal yeast infection, or while you are taking antibiotics. Repeated use can cause vaginal irritation.

2. Oral acidophilus should be taken at least one half hour prior to eating. Ingested in large quantities, acidophilus can cause diarrhea or other gastrointestinal complaints.

3. Do not take your prescription antibiotics and acidophilus at the same time, and always continue the acidophilus even after the antibiotic has ran out.