It is known to everybody that
bacteria are dangerous to human health. Bacteria is the root cause behind many
diseases some of which are life threatening. However, there are also some good
bacteria; meaning bacteria which do us good. But very little is known about
them. The good bacteria are as good to the human body as the bad ones are
dangerous. The good ones help the body to acquire better health and aid the
body in its different functions. Acidophilus is one such good bacteria.
The bacterium, Lactobacillus acidophilus, lives in the gastrointestinal
tract of the human body and produces lactic acid, which is supposed to help in
digestion and the overall health of the human body. This bacterium is found in
yogurt and other dairy products listed under the name, probiotics.
Acidophilus helps in the
digestion by producing lactic acid. However, numerous reasons such as
narcotics, alcohol, diet deficiencies, aging, antibiotics, drugs, medications,
nicotine, and stressful living can result in the decrease lactic acid producing
bacteria.
Digestion begins in the mouth, alimentary canal, and stomach and continues
right up to the intestines where the continuous work of numerous microorganisms
metabolizes the food. When the number of digestion friendly bacteria like L.
acidophilus, L. bulgaricus, and L. bifidus is small then the process of
digestion will be hampered and the body will not be able to derive full
nutrition from the food. This will also affect the synthesis of vitamins in the
body and lower the immunity of the body.
Acidophilus is known to help in a number of health problems such as
constipation, diarrhea, mucous colitis, diverticulitis, skin disorders, and
vaginal infection. It also helps in alleviating candidiasis and may prevent
cancer. These claims, however, have not yet been scientifically proven. But
Acidophilus is called "the second immune system of the body" because
of its ability to conquer or put a stop to the growth of harmful bacteria such
as shigella, which causes dysentery, diarrhea, and salmonella.
Acidophilus is used to treat the following ailments:
Easy irritable bowel
syndrome; acidophilus cures bloating, diarrhea and cramping.
Reduces flatulence
Fights vaginal yeast; combats
the overgrowth of Candida.
Fights bad breath.
Treats urinary tract
infections.
Fights viral infections by
helping to produce cells for the immunity system.
Reduces hypersensitivity
among infants with food allergies.
Also helps to fight cancer
cells, cardiovascular disease, constipation, colon cancer, diverticulitis,
Crohn's disease, heartburn, indigestion, stomach ulcers, thrush, and
ulcerative colitis.
Acidophilus might have some side effects the signs of which are difficulty in
breathing, swelling of lips, face, tongue, throat, or hives. If you have any of
these symptoms consult your doctor immediately.
You might also feel an increase in gassiness for a few days after taking acidophilus supplements but
there is nothing to worry about since it is only your intestines, which are
adjusting to the bacteria shift.