Lactobacillus Acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a bacterium of the genus Lactobacillus. As the name suggests, it is an acid-loving bacterium, responsible for converting lactose to lactic acid. It grows in low pH conditions (pH 4 - 5) and at temperatures ranging from 25 - 35 degrees Celsius. Many strains of L. acidophilus are probiotic in nature, meaning they are beneficial to the host organism. It is present in certain organs of human and animals, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, mouth and vagina. Since L. acidophilus helps the body in fighting against disease causing pathogens, it is also referred to as a 'second immune system'.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus: Health Benefits

According to research studies, it is found that L. acidophilus produces lactase, vitamin K and other anti-microbial substances. Presence of Lactobacillus acidophilus in the body helps in maintaining an acidic condition, thereby preventing microbial infections. For example, in the vagina, it produces acid, which helps in controlling the growth of fungi, thus preventing vaginal yeast infections. Considering these health benefits, L. acidophilus is used in many dairy products as well as for therapeutic purposes.

The most preferred dairy products that make use of Lactobacillus acidophilus are sweet acidophilus milk and yogurt. The former is prepared by inoculating L. acidophilus to milk and fermenting it for one day. After fermentation, the milk converts into buttermilk that contains minimum amount of lactose. Since sweet acidophilus milk is low in lactose content, people who are lactose intolerant (having problems in milk digestion), can easily digest it.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is used to treat many diseases like urinary tract infections (UTI), bacterial vaginosis (BV) and diarrhea caused due to side effects of antibiotics and yeast infections in the mouth, intestine and vagina. Many people are of the opinion that including acidophilus dairy products in the regular diet plan effectively improves the symptoms of these ailments. The fact is that L. acidophilus maintains the normal consistency of other organisms that harbor in the body. There are also many capsules of L. acidophilus that are available in the market.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus: Side Effects

Speaking about the medicinal use, the FDA has not approved the use of Lactobacillus acidophilus for treatment of any health condition. Though many manufacturers claim the medicinal importance of L. acidophilus, more researches needs to be conducted in order to prove their claims.

Common side effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus include bloating, stomach discomfort, mild fever, nausea, flatulence and allergic reactions such as itching and skin rash. Though there are no serious complications, care should be taken while opting for L. acidophilus. Recent studies conducted on L. acidophilus health supplements found in the market have revealed the presence of contaminants like toxic metals and other drugs. Hence, in order to avoid health complications, you can always purchase health products from a trusted source.

Under certain conditions, consuming L. acidophilus may be harmful to health. Women who are pregnant or those planning for pregnancy should not take Lactobacillus acidophilus. It is to be noted that individuals who have allergies or other medical conditions like a compromised immune system or intestinal problems should not ingest L. acidophilus directly. It is always advisable to consult and seek the advice of a qualified physician before taking L. acidophilus.