You probably don’t think about all the bacteria that’s inside your body. It’s a subject that doesn’t usually come up in daily conversations. When it comes to “good” bacteria, though, you should consider Lactobacillus Acidophilus. Under normal conditions, these microorganisms live in our gastrointestinal tracts. They can also be found in human mouths, and in the female vagina. If your body lacks a sufficient amount of this bacteria, your well being can suffer. That’s why it’s important to make sure you have plenty in your system. Read this informative article and find out some important health benefits of taking a Lactobacillus acidophilus supplement!
Information Brief
Lactobacillus acidophilus, or L. acidophilus, as it’s often abbreviated, comes from the prefix “lacto-” which means “milk.” “-bacillus” means “rod-like in shape”. And, “acidophilus” is a bacteria that thrives in acidic settings. This “good” bacteria is especially found in yogurt, and in some milk and other dairy products.
Health Benefits of Taking A Lactobacillus acidophilus Supplement
Replaces Good Bacteria in the Gastrointestinal Tract After Antibiotic Therapy
Antibiotics are routinely prescribed by doctors to treat a myriad of illnesses, including Influenza, infections, Strep Throat, Pneumonia, et cetera. While they can be effective at killing the “bad” germs, unfortunately, antibiotics also destroy the “good” bacteria in our bodies as well. This is the reason it’s so easy to get yeast infections while taking antibiotics. That’s why, if you don’t take a Lactobacillus acidophilus supplement on a daily basis anyhow, it’s especially important to start taking it after you’ve finished antibiotic therapy. Adding this beneficial bacteria to your body will help the “good” microbes populate again.
You can also talk to your doctor about taking a Lactobacillus acidophilus supplement at the same time you’re taking an antibiotic therapy.
True story– My friend Mary was treated for Pneumonia last winter. The antibiotics she took were successful in killing the “bad” germs. But, she woke up one morning, and her tongue and the inside of her mouth were red and inflamed. Taking the antibiotics had caused a yeast infection. This condition, when it’s in your mouth, is known as Thrush. The cure? Mary had to rinse her mouth daily with an antifungal medication. She also had to eat yogurt fortified with Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Adding a Lactobacillus acidophilus supplement to your daily diet can also enhance your your gastrointestinal function in other ways. It can help reduce the incidence of indigestion and Diarrhea. Since it helps maintain the natural balance of microorganisms in your intestinal tract, Lactobacillus acidophilus can also help people who suffer from Colitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Crohn’s disease.
Lactobacillus acidophilus can even help lower the amount of cholesterol present in your blood. And, it can reduce the risk of Colon Cancer.
Helps Prevent Candida- A Yeast Infection in the Female Vagina
Another health benefit of taking a Lactobacillus acidophilus supplement is, it can help control the population of Candida albicans. Once this fungus grows out of control, it can cause a yeast infection in the vagina known as Candida. Lactobacillus acidophilus is naturally found in the female vagina. It helps keep the population of Candida albicans in check. But, using spermicides and contraceptive creams can kill this “good” bacteria. Too little, and the results can be Candida.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in taking a Lactobacillus acidophilus supplement, talk to your doctor to see what s/he reccomends. People who are allergic to milk, or who are lactose intolerant shouldn’t take this beneficial bacteria.
