It is known to everybody that bacteria are dangerous to human health. Bacteria is the root cause behind many diseases some of which are life threatening. However, there are also some good bacteria; meaning bacteria which do us good. But very little is known about them. The good bacteria are as good to the human body as the bad ones are dangerous. The good ones help the body to acquire better health and aid the body in its different functions. Acidophilus is one such good bacteria.



The bacterium, Lactobacillus acidophilus, lives in the gastrointestinal tract of the human body and produces lactic acid, which is supposed to help in digestion and the overall health of the human body. This bacterium is found in yogurt and other dairy products listed under the name, probiotics.

Acidophilus helps in the digestion by producing lactic acid. However, numerous reasons such as narcotics, alcohol, diet deficiencies, aging, antibiotics, drugs, medications, nicotine, and stressful living can result in the decrease lactic acid producing bacteria.

Digestion begins in the mouth, alimentary canal, and stomach and continues right up to the intestines where the continuous work of numerous microorganisms metabolizes the food. When the number of digestion friendly bacteria like L. acidophilus, L. bulgaricus, and L. bifidus is small then the process of digestion will be hampered and the body will not be able to derive full nutrition from the food. This will also affect the synthesis of vitamins in the body and lower the immunity of the body.

Acidophilus is known to help in a number of health problems such as constipation, diarrhea, mucous colitis, diverticulitis, skin disorders, and vaginal infection. It also helps in alleviating candidiasis and may prevent cancer. These claims, however, have not yet been scientifically proven. But Acidophilus is called "the second immune system of the body" because of its ability to conquer or put a stop to the growth of harmful bacteria such as shigella, which causes dysentery, diarrhea, and salmonella.

Acidophilus is used to treat the following ailments:

* Easy irritable bowel syndrome; acidophilus cures bloating, diarrhea and cramping.

* Reduces flatulence

* Fights vaginal yeast; combats the overgrowth of Candida.

* Fights bad breath.

* Treats urinary tract infections.

* Fights viral infections by helping to produce cells for the immunity system.

* Reduces hypersensitivity among infants with food allergies.

* Also helps to fight cancer cells, cardiovascular disease, constipation, colon cancer, diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, heartburn, indigestion, stomach ulcers, thrush, and ulcerative colitis.

Acidophilus might have some side effects the signs of which are difficulty in breathing, swelling of lips, face, tongue, throat, or hives. If you have any of these symptoms consult your doctor immediately.

You might also feel an increase in gassiness for a few days after taking acidophilus supplements but there is nothing to worry about since it is only your intestines, which are adjusting to the bacteria shift.