Probiotic Acidophilus: A Healthy and Helpful Bacteria

Probiotic acidophilus is another name for Lactobacillus acidophilus or L. acidophilus. The probiotic acidophilus is a “good” or “friendly” bacteria that is naturally found in the intestines and vagina. These bacteria are considered friendly because they shield against “bad” organisms which may cause disease and illness in the body.

The probiotic acidophilus protects the body in a few different ways. First, when L. acidophilus is present in the digestive tract, it produces lactic acid and other substances which create an undesirable environment for harmful organisms. Second, the probiotic acidophilus also produces lactase, an enzyme that helps the body digest lactose (milk sugar). Some people are unable to produce lactase themselves, meaning they are lactose intolerant and have trouble digesting milk products. For lactose intolerant individuals, L. acidophilus is believed to help them digest milk products containing lactose. Another beneficial substance produced in the body by the probiotic acidophilus is Vitamin K.

The probiotic acidophilus is beneficial in other ways as well. By ingesting more L. acidophilus, people are able to replace friendly intestinal bacteria that may have been depleted by antibiotics or viral infections. In clinical studies, the probiotic acidophilus has been shown to prevent and treat infectious diarrhea. It’s believed that L. acidophilus also can help those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, vaginal yeast infections, and urinary tract infections. Research indicates that the probiotic acidophilus enhances the immune system and may even ease allergic reactions.