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"Bacteria" is a word that carries some pretty negative connotations.  When we think of bacteria, we generally conjure up images of nasty germs and disease.  There are, however, helpful bacteria that we just couldn't live without.

Infections and illness are caused when "bad" bacteria enter our bodies.  In the digestive tract, there are "good" bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus that contribute to our good health.  The human digestive system houses approximately four hundred types of bacteria and yeast that perform valuable functions.  The Lactobacillus acidophilus and other members of the Lactobacillus family are vitally important to our health.

The acidophilus is a "probiotic" bacterium that aids in maintaining our intestinal health, and it serves as a natural antibiotic that protects against potentially harmful organisms.  Therefore, ingesting acidophilus helps to maintain a normal balance of valuable bacterial in various parts of the body, including the vagina and intestines.

Where can I get it?

Acidophilus is found in many of the foods we eat, but particularly in yogurt.  Long valued for its many nutritional and therapeutic benefits, yogurt can differ in the types and amounts of acidophilus contained.  Some varieties of yogurt can be a reliable source of these helpful bacteria, while other brands contain none whatsoever.  It's not always easy to determine which brands of yogurt are the best sources of acidophilus.  Pasteurization, the process that heats food to kill harmful bacteria, can also sacrifice the good bacteria.  Some commercial manufacturers are now adding the active cultures after pasteurization, so it's worth the effort to shop around.

Supplementing your diet with acidophilus is also an option. Many health food stores offer acidophilus supplements that may be combined with another group of probiotic organisms known as Bifidobacteria.  Taking acidophilus supplements offers many health benefits.  Some people take acidophilus supplements to treat or prevent digestive disorders, vaginal infections and other illnesses.  Numerous studies have shown that this group of bacteria can function as an immunity enhancer, and may also restrain the toxic effects of cancer-causing carcinogens.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition commonly treated with acidophilus supplements.  This painful syndrome manifests in a collection of gastrointestinal symptoms including abdominal bloating, diarrhea and cramping.  Acidophilus can help those suffering irritable bowel syndrome by controlling diarrhea and reducing flatulence.  Another of its many benefits includes the ability to combat vaginal yeast infections and other complications caused by candida, naturally occurring yeast that thrives in our systems.  Acidophilus relieves urinary tract infections and it even battles bad breath, as a healthy amount encourages digestion and reduces the number of odor-producing bacteria.

Availability

Acidophilus supplements are available in several forms.  The bacteria can be taken orally in capsules, tablets, powders and liquids, or can be used in douche and suppository form.  Its benefits are so strong and so varied that many health and nutrition stores regularly stock acidophilus supplements, usually in capsule or powder form.

Adults can easily take acidophilus in capsule form, as prescribed or directed.  Children who are able to swallow pills may also take capsules, and younger children can be given the bacteria by mixing the powder once a day in juice, milk or food.  Infants can be given one teaspoon of powder per day mixed in a bottle, or mixed with breast milk to a paste and rubbed into the baby's mouth.

If you feel that acidophilus supplements can be beneficial for you or your child, speak to your doctor or medical practitioner to determine the recommended dosage.