Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus) belongs to a group of elements known as probiotics, which help to digest lactose (or milk sugar), regulate peristalsis and bowel movements, and digest protein to free amino acids.
Probiotics also produce enzymes that help break down and digest food. In particular, L. acidophilus has been shown to be beneficial for digestive orders. Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. and Dr. James Balch, authors of the seminal reference book Prescription for Nutritional Healing, explain:
"The flora in the healthy colon should consist of at least 85 percent lactobacilli and I S percent coliform bacteria," the authors write. "However, the typical colon bacteria count today is the reverse. This can result in gas, bloating, intestinal and systemic toxicity, constipation, and malabsorption and is conducive to an overgrowth of candida."
Candida is the fungus that causes a yeast infection.
"Taking an acidophilus supplement helps to combat all of these problems by returning the intestinal flora to a healthier balance," the authors continued. "In addition, acidophilus may help to detoxify harmful substances:"
In their book, Restoring Your Digestive Health, Jordan S. Rubin, N.M.D. and Joseph Brasco, M.D., write that some strains of L. acidophilus produce "natural antibiotics" including acidolin and acidophilin. Aside from their usefulness against streptococcus and staph infections, these "natural antibiotics ...target selected bacteria, not all the bacteria in the gut," they write. "They are not toxic to lactobacilli or to human cells. They are especially potent enemies of salmonella, Colstridum botulinum, and E. Coli:"
Though it is certainly effective in gut health, Brasco and Rubin cite several studies that L. acidophilus -as well as other probiotics-may be effective against viruses. "In one experiment, acidolin, the antibiotic produced by L. acidophilus, demonstrated the ability to disintegrate polio and vaccine cells. In another experiment, 95 percent of herpes patients who were given L. acidophilus and L. bulgaricus saw their genital herpes completely disappear."
Probiotics, including L. acidophilus, are available in several forms, including tablets, capsules, yogurts, and powders. The Lactobacillus family of bacteria is found in cultured milk products (Lacto is Latin for milk), especially yogurt. It is important to buy homemade, non-sweetened fresh yogurt. The sweetened yogurts found in supermarkets contain added sugar and -frequently- preservatives. In addition, if the yogurt has sat on the shelf for days, the potency of the probiotics could be severely reduced.
Non-dairy probiotics are recommended for those allergic to dairy products or for those suffering from a yeast infection.
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing (Third Edition). By Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. and Dr. James Balch. Copyright 2000. Avery/Penguin. New York, NY.
- Restoring Digestive Health: How the Guts and Glory Program Can Transform Your Life. By Jordan S. Rubin, N.M.D. and Joseph Brasco, M.D. Copyright 2003. Kensington Publishing Corp. New York, NY.
- National Enzyme Company Website, www.enzymeuniversity.com
- UAS Laboratories Website, www.uaslabs.com
Written by Peter Croatto. Provided Courtesy of Vitamin Retailer
