Acidophilus: Bacterial Hero
Just like people, there are all kinds of bacteria in this world. Some are bad, some are good. Some are so good that we just can’t seem to get enough of them. One form of bacteria that nearly always deserves a warm welcome is Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Potential Healing Powers:
- Aid digestion of milk products
- Prevent some yeast infections
- Restore bacterial balance in the intestines
- Fight gastrointestinal cancer
- Control cholesterol level
Commonly known simply as acidophilus, these bacteria occur naturally in our bodies. We can find acidophilus in certain dairy products or in supplement form. Studies show that you’re in good company when there’s lots of acidophilus around. They may help protect you from indigestion, yeast infections, diarrhea and possibly more.
If you’re one of the unfortunate folks who can’t digest milk products, you know what lactose intolerance is. It means you lack sufficient quantities of the enzyme lactase, which is necessary to break down the lactose, or sugar, in dairy products. The result can be indigestion, bloating or worse. The acidophilus little bacteria work to help break down lactose before it causes havoc in your gut.
Women who have frequent yeast infections may have low levels of acidophilus. Very often these vaginal infections occur when helpful bacteria in your system are killed off, most often by antibiotics. At these times, eating extra acidophilus bacteria can help restore the balance.
Acidophilus also help restore balance in the intestines and sometimes help control the diarrhea that comes as a side effect of taking antibiotics. Some studies suggest that acidophilus may help reduce cholesterol levels. There are some suggestion that acidophilus can help fight cancer in the gastrointestinal tract.
If you want to up your acidophilus intake, you’ve got several choices. The most reliable source are yogurt, acidophilus mild and supplements. You have to remember: not all yogurts are created equal! You’re looking for the words Lactobacillus acidophilus or L.acidophilus.
