Lactobacillus acidophilus is a bacterium that occurs naturally in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract and vagina. Bacteria grow by fermentation of sugar and its conversion to lactic acid in the body.Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotics shows some traits, characteristics of an organism that is beneficial to their host (humans). Due to this characteristic, the strains of bacteria are being incorporated into milk products produced commercially. A product containing strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus is yogurt.Three strains of bacteria have been shown to have positive effects on health. They are: Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5. Here are some of the diseases that the bacteria may help prevent or cure:Lactose digestion and improved toleranceOne of the major health benefits from the use of Lactobacillus acidophilus is probiotic bacteria may help with lactose digestion in those who are lactose intolerant. Lactose tolerance can be developed by the consumption of fermented dairy products containing Lactobacillus acidophilus. Sweet acidophilus yogurt addition, you can also eat sweet acidophilus milk to improve tolerance to lactose. The bacteria also helps with the digestion of lactose in lactose experiencing poor digestion. This condition is characterized by cramps, malaise and diarrhea after consumption of lactose.Bacterial vaginosisLactobacillus acidophilus as protection form colonies in the vagina, which helps prevent the occurrence of bacterial vaginosis. Studies indicate that the condition occurs when the probiotic bacteria levels fall. Consumption of Lactobacillus acidophilus-rich yogurt, as well as prescription drugs can help treat bacterial vaginosis more effectively. Another method of treatment of the disease is through the use of vaginal suppositories containing Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Vaginal candidiasis
Research indicates that the bacterium can play an effective role in the reduction of yeast infections in the vagina. This is enabled by the lactic acid produced by Lactobacillus acidophilus. In addition to consuming yogurt that contains the bacterium, you can control and prevent vaginal candidiasis with the help of tablets, powders and supplements that contain it.
Other benefits
• Lactobacillus acidophilus has the ability to produce vitamin K and lactase in the body.
• It can also generate certain anti-microbial elements like acidlphin, acidolin, bacteriocin and lactodin.
• Owing to its ability to break down complex molecules of food, Lactobacillus acidophilus prevents the growth of bacteria in it. Also, the probiotic bacterium helps reduce the severity of both diarrhea and constipation too.
• Another benefit of Lactobacillus acidophilus is that it can prevent the occurrence of colon cancer.
• When used in specific amounts, the probiotic bacterium can lower the health risks associated with radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
• On consuming yogurt that contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, you may be able to lower the risk of acquiring coronary heart diseases by almost 10%. The bacterium achieves this by lowering the serum cholesterol levels in your system. Research indicates that dairy products enriched with Lactobacillus acidophilus have the ability to bring down the levels of low density lipoprotein – commonly referred to as bad cholesterol – in the blood.
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a crucial probiotic element in your body, and its colonies can get destroyed when you consume antibiotics. To re-colonize the bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract, physicians may recommend a dose of Lactobacillus acidophilus to be taken as part of the treatment.