Acidophilus: uses, side effects, interactions

Benefits

What is acidophilus for?

Acidophilus is a good bacteria in the human body. Bacteria with full names Lactobacillus acidophilus it does live in the digestive system, urinary tract, and human genital area without causing disease. Lactobacillus acidophilus can also be found in some fermented foods such as yogurt and dietary supplements.

Lactobacillus is used to treat and prevent diarrhea, as well as infections or skin disorders. Often times it is also used to treat cholesterol-related diseases and to boost the immune system.

How does it work?

There isn't enough research to explain how these herbal supplements work. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information. However, there are several studies that show that:

• The addition of normal bacterial flora can help digest food and absorb nutrients, such as vitamins, including fat-soluble vitamins and protein. Acidophilus is a substance that also helps digest various kinds of lactose for people with lactose intolerance.
• These bacteria can help manage diarrhea, including the types of infections such as viral diarrhea in children and diarrhea in tourists. Usually used also to prevent and treat diarrheal diseases associated with the use of antibiotics, and against foreign organisms that can cause diarrheal diseases.
• Able to suppress infections caused by bacteria such as eczema (skin allergy), acne, and infections in the vagina. It can also be used to treat symptoms of spleen disease, itching, and boost the immune system. These bacteria work by fighting and preventing the growth of bad bacteria.
• Acidophilus helps control high cholesterol. The way it works is by binding the cholesterol present in the digestive system to the surface of the cells, and combining it into the cell membrane so that cholesterol will not be absorbed into your bloodstream.
• Other possible actions from Lactobacillus acidphilus is preventing the recurrence of bladder cancer. Unfortunately, there is no research that confirms this theory.

Dose

The information provided below is not a substitute for medical recommendations. Always consult your herbalist or doctor before taking this medicine.

What is the usual dose for acidophilus for adults?

Acidphilus is a bacteria that is used according to certain cases and health conditions. For adults, consume one to 15 million colony forming units (CFUs) daily for digestive health, if in good health. Too high a dose can cause minor digestive problems, while a lower intake may not be sufficient.

For children, consult your pediatrician for the proper dosage before giving him probiotics, or any other dietary supplement for babies and children. The use of acidophilus for children must be very concerned, especially for toddlers.

The dosage for using this herbal supplement can be different for each patient. The dose will depend on your age, health, and several conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe, please consult your herbalist or doctor for the appropriate dosage.

In what forms is acidophilus available?

Acidophilus is an herbal supplement that can be available in the following forms:

• Capsules, tablets, chewable tablets, or powder
• Dairy products (acidophilus milk, yogurt)
• Fluids for medical purposes on female genitals (vaginal suppositories)

Each form contains 500 million to 10 billion cultures of bacterial organisms.

Side effects

What side effects can acidophilus cause?

This acidophilus supplement product is generally well tolerated by most people. However, people who are lactose sensitive may experience stomach upset or other side effects caused by the products that contain them L. acidophilus. This is not caused by bacteria, but is caused by traces of lactose ingestion that may be contained during the production process.

Common side effects include:

• Bloating
• Serious infections, bacteremia (people with immune system disorders)

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may also be other side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your herbalist or doctor.

Security

What should I know before taking acidophilus?

For people who have lactose intolerance, stopping using supplements in the form of dairy products, it is more recommended to take them Lactobacillus acidophilus in supplement form. You should talk to your doctor about its use in food for the treatment and prevention of infection.

You should take antibiotics as prescribed, even if there is an infection caused by parasites. Acidophilus is a substance that may be added to your diet without changing your medical therapy, diet, or exercise lifestyle.

The regulations on the consumption of herbal supplements are looser than the consumption of drugs. Further studies are needed to determine the safety of their consumption. The benefits of taking herbal supplements outweigh the risks. Consult your herbalist or doctor for more information.

How safe is acidophilus?

Dairy products are not recommended for consumption by people who are lactose sensitive. Products containing acidophilus can be used during pregnancy and are allowed for children over 3 years. Supplementation L. acidophilus in the first 6 months can increase the risk of allergies to cow's milk for some children. You must be careful when consuming it if you have the following conditions:

• High fever
• Indigestion
• Short intestinal disease
• Immune problems or lactose intolerance
• Fixed orthodontic equipment (eg braces), chewing problems, or irregular teeth. Acidophilus can cause cavities in people with this condition.

Interaction

What kinds of interactions might occur when I take acidophilus?

This herbal supplement may interact with your current health condition. Consult with herbalist or doctor before consuming it.

• Antacids (ulcer drugs) should be taken 30-60 minutes before taking acidophilus.
• Antibiotics should not be used at the same time as acidophilus. Give a time lag of at least 2 hours.
• Azulfidine when used in combination with acidophilis can reduce the effects of azulfidines.
• Immunosuppressants (such as cyclosporine, tacrolimus, azathiprine) or antineoplastics. Acidophilus should not be taken at the same time as immunisuppressants or antineoplastics.
• The effect of warfarin can be increased when taken with acidophilus, use caution.
• Acidophilus might decrease garlic absorption. If consumed together, give a break for 3 hours.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.