Lactobacillus Acidophilus 

Acidophilus, or to give it its full name, lactobacillus acidophilus, is one of the most beneficial organisms in our bodies. Acidophilus is a probiotic, one of a number of organisms known as microflora which live in the stomach and the intestines and which are vital for the correct abs orption of nutrients. Its other main function is to help protect the digestive system by keeping good and bad bacteria in balance. This prevents things such as Candida, a type of internal yeast, from overgrowing in the body and causing health problems.

Lactobacillus acidophilus can be thrown out of balance by many factors. These can include the over-consumption of processed foods, the use of steroidal hormones, a depleted immune system, and some over the counter remedies. The most common factor, however, is the overuse of antibiotics. Broad spectrum antibiotics kill not only the targeted bacteria, but also any good bacteria they come into contact with, including acidophilus, and as a result severely damage the natural balance of organisms in the digestive system. And it’s when this destruction of vital bacteria lining the stomach and intestines occurs that other things like yeast take over, causing adverse health effects.
Joint pain, allergies, thrush, chronic tiredness, digestive ailments, fungal infections and rashes are just some of the symptoms associated with Candida overgrowth. (Note: these can have other causes too). 

Luckily, it is easy to rebuild supplies of acidophilus. As a supplement, it’s available in powder or tablet form. Taking these supplements will reinforce your digestive system by adding billions of beneficial organisms. Another way of taking acidophilus is by eating yogurt or other dairy products to which the probiotic has been added. These are usually known as ‘live’ products. Whether in food, pill, liquid or powder form, taking acidophilus will repair some of the damage, as well as help maintain a healthy balance of microflora in the gut.

In some cases, more needs to be done to repair damage done to the digestive system by Candida overgrowth. Usually, a combination of ways is implemented, including a diet reduced in fat, sugar and processed food, probiotic supplements and herbal remedies. In time the proper levels of lactobacillus acidophilus will be restored.