Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of bacteria that exists naturally in the human body. Deemed a "friendly bacteria," the presence of acidophilus bacteria is a good thing, as the probiotic protects against disease-causing bacteria. Among the many types of probiotics, acidophilus is the most commonly used. Dosages vary, however, depending on the reasons for use. Consult a trusted health care adviser to learn more. People consume acidophilus and similar probiotics for a host of conditions, including chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, lactose intolerance, vaginal infections and as a diarrhea preventative.
Additionally, evidence suggests that acidophilus may enhance immune system functioning to benefit overall health, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Many Americans have only recently begun to recognize probiotics as a treatment, as spending on probiotic supplements nearly tripled from to , according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Efficacy of Lactobacillus GG in prevention of nosocomial diarrhea in infants. J Pediatr. Szajewska H, Mrukowicz JZ. Probiotics in the treatment and prevention of acute infectious diarrhea in infants and children: a systematic review of published randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials.
J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. Bacteriocin production and resistance to drugs are advantageous features for lactobacillus acidophilus La, a potential probiotic strain. New Microbiol. Lactobacillus thearpy for acute infections diarrhea in children: a meta-analysis. Effectiveness of the association of 2 probiotic strains formulated in a slow release vaginal product, in women affected by vulvovaginal candidiasis: a pilot study.
J Clin Gastroenterol. Lactobacillus acidophilus Bifidobacterium; L. Vaginal infections Several studies suggest that using L. Diarrhea prevention The evidence for using Lactobacillus to prevent diarrhea is mixed. Other uses Although evidence in most cases is preliminary or mixed, Lactobacillus and other probiotics have been suggested for a number of remedies and conditions, including: Replacing the "friendly" intestinal bacteria destroyed by antibiotics.
Helping digestion and suppressing disease-causing bacteria. Treating chronic constipation. Treating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome IBS and inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis. Improving lactose tolerance. Enhancing the immune system. Studies suggest that consuming yogurt or milk that contains specific strains of Lactobacillus , or taking supplements with Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium, may improve the body's natural immune response.
One study found that supplementation for 6 months was a safe and effective way to reduce fever, cough, and duration of antibiotic treatment, as well as lessen the number of missed school days for children 3 to 5 years of age. Lowering the risk of pollen allergies. Reducing the risk of childhood eczema. Helping to treat high cholesterol. Dietary Sources The primary dietary sources of L. Available Forms L. How to Take It Pediatric Newborns and infants 0 to 1 year : Always check with your pediatrician before giving dietary supplements to an infant or child.
Adult Recommended doses of L. For prevention or treatment of diarrhea: Take 1 to 2 billion colony forming units CFUs per day. Some doctors may recommend up to 10 to 15 billion CFUs per day. For vaginal infections: Some supplement manufacturers offer a probiotic suppository for vaginal use. Many people recommend inserting regular probiotic capsules vaginally, as well. Oral medications should only be taken orally. Those seeking a vaginal application should look for formulas specifically designed for vaginal use.
Many practitioners rely on the oral use of probiotics to treat and prevent vaginal infections without using any sort of vaginal application of probiotics. You should never insert prebiotics vaginally.
Speak with your physician. For maintaining intestinal health: For healthy adults, take 1 to 15 billion CFUs daily. For the prevention of antibiotic-related diarrhea, some doctors recommend taking L. Precautions Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, you should take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider. Possible Interactions If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use Lactobacillus or other probiotics without talking to your health care provider first.
Gorbach SL. Probiotics in the third millennium. Dig Liver Dis. Your unique gene makeup, age, health, bacteria you already have in your body, and diet all affect how probiotics work. Effectiveness is specific to the strain and the condition. Probiotics can be found in foods such as yogurt, or in dietary supplements, with various popular strains. A new review also found probiotics to be helpful in healthy people to maintain gut, vaginal, and immune health.
The most important way to make sure the probiotic you choose will work is to find a reputable brand and follow the label directions suggested on how to take it. Each brand will have specific information based on the product. Manufacturers are constantly trying to improve probiotic effectiveness by using different methods such as microencapsulation to protect probiotics from the environment, increasing chances of survival and potency.
A typical label will have the name of the specific probiotic such as Lactobacillus acidophilus , the dose in CFU, an expiration date, and instructions for use and storage. With so many probiotic products on the market today, it can be confusing to pick the best one for you. The World Gastroenterology Organization Global Guidelines has compiled a comprehensive list of evidence-based conditions that probiotics can help.
The list includes specific strains of probiotics and recommended doses. Read the label carefully to find the right strain, dose, how to take it, expiration date, and how to store.
Do not double doses. Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the supplement is working properly and to decide if you should continue to take it. If you develop a skin rash, hives, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing, or any allergic reaction to this supplement, call your doctor as soon as possible.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription over-the-counter [OTC] medicines and herbal, vitamin, or other dietary supplements. Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects.
Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine.
Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
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