Here is a couple of long words for you: Lactobacillus acidophilus. Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in several areas of the body, including the mouth, throat, digestive tract, urinary tract and vaginal canal. The major benefit to Lactobacillus acidophilus is that it acts like a natural anitbiotic, destroying harmful microorganisms and helping to keep a delicate balance of good bacteria amongst the many microorganism in the digestive tract. Lactobacillus acidophilus is most commonly found in yogurt and in kefir, both cultured milk products. Other fermented foods that contain Lactobacillus acidophilus include sauerkraut and a fermented Asian tea called kombucha. As one of the most important bacteria in the digestive tract, Lactobacillus acidophilus has been found to have a beneficial effects on digestion and immune system function. The most common uses for Lactobacillus acidophilus include helping ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, controlling diarrhea, reducing flatulence (very important!), fighting vaginal yeast and other candida infections, relieving urinary tract infections and even battling bad breath. The mechanism for success in helping all of these conditions relies on the fact that when Lactobacillus acidophilus breaks down during digestion, it releases hydrogen peroxide that creates a toxic environment for unhealthy bacteria. Another major benefit for supplementing the diet with Lactobacillus acidophilus is when patients are on antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics destroy the healthy bacteria in the digestive tract, creating a whole host of problems including, digestive issues and decreased immunity. Acidophilus replaces the destroyed bacteria and brings balance back to the microorganisms that inhabit the digestive system. At the culmination of antibiotic therapy, probiotic therapy is a must to help the body regain its health that was lost from the medication. When purchasing Lactobacillus acidophilus, make sure that if in capsule form they contain at least 1 billion live organisms per pill. Also, when buying yogurt, your best bet is plain, organic yogurt that contains live cultures or active cultures. The Himalayans were said to eat yogurt on a daily basis and they typically lived over 100 years. If you would like to do the same, a daily cup of yogurt couldn't hurt!
