Facts About Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidolphus is a species of the bacteria group lactobacillus, which is similar to the bacteria that live in the small intestine and vagina of humans. When taken as a supplement, it is known as a "probiotic," and comes in a variety of forms. Probiotics are thought to have significant health benefits and are considered to be a safe complementary treatment for a variety of conditions.
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Sources
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Although they occur naturally in the body, probiotics can be consumed in the form of a supplement or in a number of foods including yogurt and certain types of milk. One form of milk that contains lactobacillus acidophilus is known simply as acidophilus milk. You should not consume oral acidophilus supplements if your immune system is weakened or if you have any form of intestinal damage.
Benefits
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Lactobacillus acidophilus is beneficial in that it produces vitamin K, lactase and such antimacrobial substances as acidolphilin, lactocidin, bacteriocin and acidolin. These vitamins and substances combat bacterial vaginosis, lactose intolerance, diarrhea and other conditions, though its effectiveness varies with each one. See Reference 1 for a thorough list of conditions which lactobacillus acidophilus treats, and related studies.
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Dosage
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The proper dosage of lactobacillus acidophilus is dependent on the age and the method in which it is ingested. For most conditions it is taken orally in tablet form and should there be consumed according to the directions on the bottle, though they are typically taken once daily.
Bacterial vaginosis is often treated via a concentration of 100 million colony-forming units (a cell that can replicate into an entire colony) per milliliter in eight ounces of yogurt (ingested or inserted into the vagina), or in tablets inserted into the vagina. Discuss with your doctor which option is best.
For diarrhea, a suppository containing 1.5 grams of the bacteria is used. The recommended dosage for children is about one quarter of the dose typically used for adults. Discuss with your doctor the proper dosage to give your children.
Side Effects
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If used properly, the risk of side effects is low. The most commonly reported side effects are gas and abdominal discomfort, especially in those who are lactose intolerant and consume the bacteria through dairy products. This usually subsides as you continue its use. If taken in the form of a vaginal tablet for bacterial vaginosis, a mild burning sensation in the vagina may occur.
Warnings
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Due to a significant lack of evidence supporting its safety in pregnant women, use of lactobacillus acidophilus by women who are expecting should be monitored closely by a physician. If you are currently undergoing cancer treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation or are taking immunosuppressants, avoid using lactobacillus acidophilus due to an increased risk of heart valve and blood infections.
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