Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of many friendly
bacteria that metabolize and consume sugars and produce lactic
acid in the gut. It is one of several bacteria in the Lactobacillus
genus. It takes its name from lacto-, meaning
milk, and -bacillus, meaning rod-like in shape. Lactobacillus
acidophilus is found naturally in some fermented dairy
products. Research indicates that L. acidophilus
can provide improved gastrointestinal function, a more robust
immune system, and a decrease in the frequency of vaginal
yeast infections.
When Lactobacillus acidophilus is consumed in adequate
numbers, it populates the intestinal tract and can enhance
the state of health of the intestines and vagina. The breakdown
of nutrients in the gut by L. acidophilus produces
lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and other by-products that
make the gastrointestinal environment hostile for undesired
organisms. L. acidophilus also tends to consume the
nutrients many other microorganisms depend on, thus outnumbering
and killing off possibly harmful bacteria in the digestive
tract. Patients are often instructed to take an L. acidophilus
treatment in order to recolonize the gastrointestinal tract
after taking antibiotics.
Eli Metchnikoff is regarded as the first known probiotic
researcher. He concluded in 1908 that the long lifespan of
residents of the Balkan Islands was due to the ingestion of
large quantities of the lactobacilli group through fermented
foods that inhibit pathogens and detoxify the system. A healthy
intestine is one which maintains a balance between bacteria
of various competing groups such as clostridia, coliform,
lactobacilli, streptococci and bacteroides.
Nebraska Cultures is dedicated to cultivating and distributing
Dr. Khem Shahani’s DDS-1 strain of Lactobacillus
acidophilus to America’s largest supplement manufacturers
and suppliers.
The health benefits of Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Helps digest carbohydrates, proteins and fats through
the production of enzymes and B vitamins.
- Helps lactose-intolerant individuals digest milk and milk-based
products via production of the enzyme lactase.
- Helps to produce folic acid, which is essential for the
production and maintenance of new cells, particularly vital
to normal fetal development.
- Produces natural antibiotic-like substances which help
to suppress pathogenic bacteria in the gastrointestinal
tract.
- Reduces the incidence of dysentery, diarrhea, bad breath,
cholera and dermatological problems.
- Assists in the metabolism of calcium — thus helping
to prevent osteoporosis.
- Inhibits cancerous cell multiplication.
- Reduces cholesterol accumulation in the arteries.
- Enhances the immune system.
Principal Author: M. Ofiyeva
Date of Initial Publication: 07/05/2007
Last Updated: 09/22/2007
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