Health Glossary - For Everyone

Acidophilus
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What is Acidophilus

Lactobacillus Acidophilus (L. Acidophilus) is a beneficial bacteria that is naturally found in yoghurt, kefir (a creamy drink made from fermented cow's milk) and some other products where it has been added.

L. Acidphilus is a probiotic, which is the general terms for a substance that promotes the growth of benficial bacteria in the intestinal tract, to ensure there is a normal balance of the "good" and "bad" bacteria and promotes good intestinal health.

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Important acidophilus facts

L. Acidphilus is just one of the probiotics available for restoring the balance of the bacteria in the intestinal tract. Some of the others are:

There is some evidence that some of these bacterium have beneficial health effects on some conditions. Some of the bacterium are more potent than others for certain health conditions, which have been studied in various tests.



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Why acidophilus is important

L. Acidophilus is available as a a powder form or a capsule. It is either manufactured on its own or (more commonly) it has other probiotic strains added. Different manufacturers add different strains accordingly.

L. Acidophillus is commonly recommended recommended for the following conditions: candida, irritable bowel syndrome, thrush and for people on long term antibiotic therapy.

 

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Last reviewed: 14 January 2007 || Last updated: 21 August 2007

 

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references

 

More information

To learn more, go to the following web site:


 

NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.

 

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