Functional Roles Of Lactobacillus Acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of bacteria found in your intestines. L. acidophilus can also be found naturally in a number of fermented foods, including sauerkraut, miso, kefir, yogurt and tempeh.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is also sometimes referred to as L. acidophilus or simply acidophilus.

Lactobacilli, particularly L. acidophilus, are often used as probiotics. The World Health Organization defines probiotics as “live micro-organisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”.

Here are some health conditions that studies show can be improved with L. acidophilus:

1. Diarrhea
A 2020 review on the use of L. acidophilus for digestive disorders found it to be both safe and effective in treating diarrhea. It can be useful as a complementary treatment for both acute diarrhea and chronic diarrhea, as well as diarrhea caused by antibiotics.


2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
A review of L. acidophilus found some evidence that the bacteria strain could reduce abdominal pain and discomfort in those with IBS. However, the review also noted that not all human trials on L. acidophilus for IBS could offer proven positive results.


3. Vaginal Infections
Vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis are common types of vaginal infections. L. acidophilus may help to prevent and treat vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections. According to one review, daily intake of L. acidophilus supplements may help prevent and treat BV, a common vaginal infection that results from an imbalance in the types of bacteria in the vagina. L. acidophilus may also have antifungal properties, making it a potential treatment for yeast infections.


4. Immune Health and Allergies
L. acidophilus may also have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. These properties may make L. acidophilus a treatment option for respiratory symptoms caused by allergies. L. acidophilus can boost the immune system and thus help reduce the risk of viral infections and improve symptoms of the common cold.


L. acidophilus is a probotic bacteria that’s normally found in your intestines and crucial to health.

Due to its ability to produce lactic acid and interact with your immune system, it may help prevent and treat symptoms of various diseases.

In order to increase L. acidophilus in your intestines, eat fermented foods, including those listed above.

Alternatively, L. acidophilus supplements can be beneficial, especially if you suffer from one of the disorders mentioned in this article.

Whether it’s obtained through foods or supplements, L. acidophilus can provide health benefits for everyone.



Source(s): healthline, verywellhealth