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Acidophilus
Description: The bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the class of probiotics, which help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora. They appear to also inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and increase general resistance to infection.1
Acidophilus works by producing lactic acid, which increases the acidity of the intestine and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria.
2 It also acts as a natural antibiotic against some infections.3
Taken regularly, acidophilus can prevent yeast infections.
4 When an infection is present, the use of acidophilus in conjunction with antibiotics speeds recovery time.5
Acidophilus should be taken whenever an antibiotic is used, as antibiotics often leave the body open to yeast infection.

Natural Sources: Fermented dairy products, such as live culture yogurt.

Useful in treatment of: Indigestion and heartburn, Immune Function Improvement, Irritable bowel syndrome, yeast infection.

Recommended Dosage: 100 million bacteria per gram, which is approximately the amount in a standard acidophilus supplement capsule.

Contraindications: Individuals with dairy intolerances may react to acidophilus supplements. They should look for milk-free acidophilus, which is cultured from soy.

References:

1De Simone C, Vesely R, Bianchi SB, et al. The role of probiotics in modulation of the immune system in man and in animals. Int J Immunother 1993;9:23–28.
2Rasic JL. The role of dairy foods containing bifido and acidophilus bacteria in nutrition and health. N Eur Dairy J 1983;4:80–88.
3Barefoot SF, Klaenhammer TR. Detection and activity of Lactacin B, a Bacteriocin produced by Lactobacillus acidophilus. Appl Environ Microbiol 1983;45:1808–15.
4Reid G et al. Implantation of Lactobacillus casei var rhamnosus into vagina. Lancet 1994;344:1229.
5Eschenback H. Vaginal infection. Clin Ob Gyn 1983;26:186–202.

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