Yes, lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the most common types of probiotics. Like most probiotics, you can find lactobacillus acidophilus in supplement form, e. Acidophilus lives in the gut, mouth and vagina. Sometimes, the natural balance of friendly bacteria in your body can be affected by illness or medication. Acidophilus is available as a capsule, tablet, powder or vaginal suppository, and is also found in certain fermented foods such as live yogurt and kefir.
Acidophilus is used to make certain fermented foods and drinks like yoghurt and is also made into supplements for a range of health benefits. Friendly bacteria, such as acidophilus, have been shown to help restore the balance of gut flora in a number of different ways. Lactobacilli are the most common bacterial family inhabiting the vagina in healthy women, which includes lactobacillus acidophilus. When the bad bacteria tips the good bacteria out of balance, women can develop infections like bacterial vaginosis BV , thrush and urinary tract infections UTIs.
Evidence shows that maintaining adequate lactobacilli colonies in the body can help to retain a harmonious balance to help prevent the occurrence of infections. A Iranian study reported that friendly bacteria taken orally or as a pessary released acids inside the vagina that help maintain the pH at a healthy level, suppressing the growth of bacteria that can cause problems such as thrush and UTIs.
As women go through the menopause, their hormonal changes can trigger changes in the vagina microbiota. When women go through the menopause , their bodies are reacting to a decrease in estrogen levels, amongst other changes. A drop in estrogen levels can affect the ability of lactobacilli to colonise the vagina and help prevent infections occurring. This is one of the reasons why postmenopausal women are more susceptible to urogenital infections, which supports the theory that vaginal lactobacilli could protect us from these pathogens.
One review of studies focusing on the influence of probiotic supplementation on symptoms of the menopause found a positive link. They stated that recent studies suggested that the intervention on probiotics could help improve the health status of menopausal women.
Cholesterol is an essential compound made in our livers that helps maintain cell membranes, make vitamin D and even help make steroid hormones, like oestrogen and testosterone. And it turns out that probiotics such as lactobacillus acidophilus could help keep levels in check. This can cause plaque to build up and narrow arteries, making it hard to oxygen and other essential nutrients to travel around the body. Studies have suggested that some probiotics can help reduce cholesterol levels, lactobacillus acidophilus being one of the most effective — especially when combined with other probiotics.
One study found that taking lactobacillus acidophilus along with another probiotic for 6 weeks experienced a significant lowering of cholesterol levels — total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and also HDL cholesterol. Diarrhoea is very common and has many causes, including bacterial infections. Various studies have looked at the benefits of taking friendly bacteria, such as acidophilus, to help diarrhoea. A review from the Cochrane Collaboration analysed 63 studies involving participants, and reported that the friendly bacteria worked in the gut to:.
Scientists found a friendly bacteria , like one from the lactobacilli family, could shorten the length of a bout of diarrhoea by one day, although they called for more research into this effect. Irritable bowel syndrome IBS is a common digestive system condition, which can cause side effect like bloating, stomach pain and irregular bowl movements. The cause of IBS is still very much a mystery, but there is a theory that it could be something to do with certain types of bacteria in the intestines.
A study involving 60 participants with functional bowel disorders, including IBS, tested the effectiveness of lactobacillus acidophilus on symptoms. They took the probiotic for months and found a reduction in bloating. Similar research found that taking just lactobacillus acidophilus reduced stomach pain in those with IBS.
A healthy gut is essential for a healthy immune system , which we need to help reduce the risk of viral infections, like the common cold. If you choose to use lactobacillus acidophilus, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. Lactobacillus acidophilus is available in capsule and tablet form, or as a vaginal suppository. Powder or liquid forms may also be available.
Some dairy products, especially yogurt, also contain lactobacillus acidophilus. Do not use different forms of lactobacillus acidophilus at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose. Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with lactobacillus acidophilus does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product. Store lactobacillus acidophilus in a sealed container as directed on the product label, away from moisture, heat, and light.
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra lactobacillus acidophilus to make up the missed dose. Health Topics. Health Tools. Acidophilus Lactobacillus Acidophilus. Generic Name: Lactobacillus acidophilus. Reviewed: June 23, Please try again. Something went wrong on our side, please try again.
Show references Lactobacillus acidophilus oral route. Micromedex 2. Accessed Aug. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
Homayouni A, et al. Effects of probiotics on the recurrence of bacterial vaginosis: A review. Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease. Auclair J, et al. Clinical Infectious Diseases. Probiotic products oral. Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic.
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