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L. Acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus belongs to the genus lactobacillus and is popularly referred to as the acid-loving milk bacterium. In fact, the characteristic feature of these organisms is that they aid in fermenting sugars into lactic acid. This specie of its bacilli is also known for its probiotic characteristics and is commercially employed in myriad dairy products. Some common strains of this organism includes Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1, Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM.

Health Benefits :

Lactobacillus acidophilus has been studied to be a natural antibiotic which in turn helps in maintaining intestinal health in the human body. It is also considered to be a nutritional supplement which then aids in manufacturing Vitamin B and other anti-bacterial substances to produce lactase. Other ailments that are treated with the help of L. acidophilus include irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea and cramping. It helps relieve bloating to a great extent followed by the reduction of flatulence. Acidophilus helps fight vaginal yeast infections and also stops the overgrowth of candida. It consequently helps in the treatment of urinary tract infection. Acidophilus helps boost immunity in the human body to fight viral infections. It has also been observed to enhance hypersensitivity among infants suffering from food allergies. L.acidophilus also helps fight bad breath. Other health anomalies this organism helps fight are stomach ulcers, thrush, colitis, ulcerative, heartburn, diverticulitis and colon cancer.

Preparation :

Lactobacillus acidophilus is available in the form of capsules, tablets, suppository or powder. It is also usually added to soda or milk which helps changing it into curd.

References :

"Bacteria Genomes - LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS" . European Bioinformatics Institute . Retrieved 2007-08-22 .

Ljungh A, Wadström T (2006). "Lactic acid bacteria as probiotics". Curr Issues Intest Microbiol 7 (2): 73–89. PMID 16875422 .

Forsum U, Holst E, Larsson P, Vasquez A, Jakobsson T, Mattsby-Baltzer I (2005). "Bacterial vaginosis--a microbiological and immunological enigma". APMIS 113 (2): 81–90. doi : 10.1111/j.1600-0463.2005.apm1130201.x . PMID 15723682 .