Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplements

The term 'bacteria' and the thoughts that cross our mind are the damaging effects associated with exposure to these microbes. However, you would be glad to know that there are certain species of bacteria that can help to keep our health in good shape. These are known as lactobacillus acidophilus, that promote digestion and help to combat invasion of 'bad' bacteria. These beneficial bacteria usually prefer to stay in the vagina and the small intestine. Also referred to as good bacteria, these species play a major role in manufacturing vitamin K and anti-bacterial organisms. Although there are natural sources of these 'friendly' bacteria, they are also available through lactobacillus acidophilus supplements.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus

Benefits
Antibiotic dosage is commonly prescribed to get rid of bad bacteria, but unfortunately these medications also kill the good bacteria. Thus, after completing the antibiotic course, the person is likely to have low levels of good bacteria. With significant decrease in the population of good bacteria, the person is like to suffer from yeast infection of the mouth and genital areas. Deficiency of good bacteria can also cause decreased energy levels (extreme fatigue), urinary tract infections and gum problems like gingivitis. In order to overcome the symptoms of probiotic deficiency, doctors may prescribe these supplements.

Due to limited clinical studies, there have been no confirmed benefits of these supplements. Research has not yet revealed any conclusive evidence about the advantages of taking these supplements. Also available as suppositories, they may provide relief to patients suffering from bacterial vaginosis, as found out through small studies. In yet another study involving a small group of people diagnosed with cedar pollen allergy, these supplements helped to improve their conditions. A small number of irritable bowel syndrome patients have also experienced substantial relief after taking supplemental dosage of lactobacillus acidophilus. On the other hand, diarrhea patients, both children and adults, did not respond quite well to these supplements. Further investigation is warranted before coming to any conclusion.

Supplements
Freeze dried cultures of this good bacteria are available in capsule, tablet and powder form. Liquid preparations as well as anal or vaginal suppositories of lactobacillus acidophilus are also available in different strengths. The dosage is dependent on the age and so when giving to children and adults, the capsule strength will differ. Few cases of skin yeast infections have been treated with liquid preparation of lactobacillus acidophilus.

Side Effects
Extensive research has not been done on this supplement to verify its adverse side effects. Based on small studies, these supplements do not show any worrisome side effects. Mild to moderate abdominal pain has been linked to intake of these supplements. Taking these capsules or pills can also contribute to build up of intestinal gas, which may lead to bloating and flatulence.

Although these supplements may help to treat yeast infections, they can also be problematic in people with severe intestinal disorders, especially those that cause development of ulcers in the intestine. An impaired intestinal tract may not be able tolerate intake of these supplements. Also, people with a suppressed immune system may experience discomfort by taking these supplements.

How to Select an Acidophilus Supplement
There are different strains of acidophilus bacteria. Some species are highly unstable and therefore their supplements may spoil easily. So when it comes to buying these supplements, one must seek the assistance of a qualified doctor. Also, when it comes to storage, they need to be stored in refrigerators. Though the supplements kept at room temperature are fit for consumption, their effectiveness drastically reduces when exposed to high temperatures for considerable amount of time. So, if a medical store owner gives you the supplements that are not kept in refrigerators, do not buy them.

In case you are getting your daily dose of lactobacillus acidophilus through homemade yogurt, taking it in supplemental form is usually not required. Yogurt prepared at home (not the ones available in the market) is the best source of good bacteria and so taking it regularly is usually sufficient to maintain a good balance of friendly bacteria. These supplements are generally recommended to combat yeast infections such as vaginosis and oral thrush. However, those who have no access to homemade yogurt will have to take these supplements (before meals) to ensure stable population of friendly bacteria.