Nutritional Supplements

The Herb and Supplement Index by Interflyer

Saturday, January 15, 2005


Name acidophilus


Origin


Scientific Name lactobacillus acidophilus


Description Some 500 species of bacteria inhabit the digestive tract. The most beneficial are two strains of Lactobacilli bacteria : acidophilus and bifidus. Both are probiotics, meaning they provide a proper balance of health-promoting bacteria in the intestine. Yogurt is the traditional source of acidophilus and has been used as an elixir in folk medicine for hundreds of years. It can be difficult though to determine how much acidophilus is really in yogurt. Acidophilus is sometimes combined with bifidus which promotes the growth of friendly bacteria called FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides).


Uses Treats chronic gastrointestinale tract disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, recurrent gas and bloating, and inflammatory bowel disease. Controls vaginal yeast infections. Can reduce the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, a chronic inflammation of the intestine. Along with a high fiber diet acidophilus contributes to overall colon health.


Notes If you have a vaginal infection for the first time, see your doctor before treating yourself. Acidophilus is useful against the yeast Candida Albicans, but has little effect on other types of vaginal problems and may worsen their symtoms.


Possible Side Effects Ingested in large quatities, acidophilus may cause diarrhea or other gastrointestinal complaints. Prolonged douching can irritate the vagina.


REMINDER If you have a medical condition such as a heart condition, high blood pressure, palpatations, high blood sugar or other medical conditions talk to your doctor before taking supplements.

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