Acidophilus is a good bacterium in the human body. The bacterium, whose full name is Lactobacillus acidophilus , does indeed 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 food supplements.
Lactobacillus is used to treat and prevent diarrhea, as well as infections or skin disorders. Often also used to treat diseases related to cholesterol and to boost the immune system.
How does it work?
There is not 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 normal addition of flora bacteria 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 types of lactose for sufferers of lactose intolerance.
- This bacterium can help treat diarrhea, including types of infections such as diarrhea virus in children and diarrhea in tourists. Usually also used to prevent and treat diarrhea related to antibiotic use, and against foreign organisms that can cause diarrhea.
- Able to suppress infections caused by bacteria such as eczema (skin allergies), acne, and infections in the vagina. Can also be used to treat the symptoms of spleen disease, itching, and enhance the immune system These bacteria work by fighting and preventing the growth of bad bacteria.
- Acidophilushelps control high cholesterol. The way it works is to bind cholesterol to the digestive system on the cell surface, and attach it to the cell membrane so that cholesterol is not absorbed into your bloodstream.
- Another possible action of Lactobacillus acidphilusis to prevent recurrence of bladder cancer. Unfortunately, there is no research to confirm 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 bacterium 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. Doses that are too high can cause mild digestive problems, while lower consumption may not be sufficient.
For children, consult with your pediatrician for the right dose before giving it with probiotics , or other food supplements for babies and children. The use of acidophilus for children must be highly considered, especially for toddlers.
The dosage of using this herbal supplement may be different for each patient. The dosage is very dependent on your age, health, and some conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe, please consult with your herbalist or doctor for the appropriate dosage.
What forms of acidophilus are available?
Acidophilus is an herbal supplement that can be available in the form of:
- Capsules, tablets, chewable tablets, or powder
- Dairy products (acidophilus milk, yogurt)
- Medicinal fluid for women’s genitalia (vaginal suppositories)
Each form contains 500 million to 10 billion cultures of bacterial organisms.
Side effects
What side effects can acidophilus cause?
Acidophilus supplement products are usually well tolerated by most people. However, people who are sensitive to lactose are likely to experience abdominal pain or other side effects caused by products containing L. acidophilus . This is not caused by bacteria, but is caused by traces of consumption of lactose that may be contained during the production process.
Common side effects include:
- Bloated
- 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 more attention to certain side effects, consult your herbalist or doctor.
Security
What should I know before taking Acidophilus?
For people who have lactose intolerance, stop using supplements in the form of dairy products, it is recommended to take Lactobacillus acidophilus in supplement form. You should talk with your doctor about using it in food for treatment and prevention of infection.
You should take antibiotics as prescribed, even if an infection is caused by a parasite. Acidophilus is a substance that may be added to the menu without changing medical therapy, diet, or lifestyle exercise.
The regulation of taking herbal supplements is more lax than the consumption of drugs. Further studies are needed to determine the safety of consumption. The benefits of taking herbal supplements must 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 sensitive to lactose. Products containing acidophilus may be used during pregnancy and are allowed for children over 3 years. Supplementation of L. acidophilus in the first 6 months can increase the risk of allergy to cow’s milk for some children. You must be careful when taking it if you have a condition:
- High fever
- Indigestion
- Short bowel disease
- Immune problems or lactose intolerance
- Fixed orthodontic equipment (eg stirrup), chewing problems, or irregular teeth. Acidophilus can cause cavities in people with this condition.
Interaction
What interactions might occur when I consume acidophilus?
This herbal supplement may be able to interact with your current health condition. Consult with an herbalist or doctor before taking it.
- Antacids (ulcer drugs) should be consumed 30-60 minutes before consuming acidophilus.
- Antibiotics should not be used in conjunction with acidophilus. Give a time gap of at least 2 hours.
- Azulfidin when used together with acidophilis can reduce the effects of azulfidin.
- Immunosuppressants (such as cyclosporine, tacrolimus, azathiprine) or antineoplastics. Acidophilus should not be taken together with immunisuppressants or antineoplastics.
- The effect of warfarin can be increased when consumed with acidophilus, caution in its use.
- Acidophilus can reduce the absorption of garlic. If consumed together, give time lag for 3 hours.