Types of Acidophilus
Acidophilus is one of the most studied and oldest studied probiotics -- a preparation containing live bacteria -- and can be found naturally occurring in the body and in dairy products. You can also take it as a dietary supplement. The Mayo Clinic recommends that anyone with intestinal damage, a weakened immune system or an intestinal bacteria overgrowth avoid acidophilus.-
Lactobacillus Acidophilus DDS-1
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The DDS strain of acidophilus -- Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1 -- is widely researched and may be the most common probiotic ingested. Its beneficial attributes include acting as a digestion aid and creating healthy bacteria that fights off bacteria; creating vitamin B and folic acid; and creating lactase, which aids with the digestion of milk proteins.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus LA-5
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Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 is a strain of acidophilus in dairy products, usually yogurt, and created in labs as well. Its benefits are similar to the benefits of DDS, including providing the stomach with healthy bacteria and aiding in digestion. LA-5 recognizes live target bacteria and increases lactacin B production, benefiting the stomach.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus NCFM
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NCFM is another beneficial strain of acidophilus. The 2001 study "The Scientific Basis of Lactobacillus Acidophilus NCFM Functionality as a Probiotic" showed that probiotics reduce diarrhea in children. The 2010 study "Probiotic Gouda Cheese Study" revealed that NCFM helps the elderly develop stronger immune systems.
Finding Beneficial Sources of Acidophilus
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Yogurt is a source of acidophilus, but not all yogurt sold at your supermarket has the same amount of the helpful probiotic, if any at all. Look for a "live and active cultures" label. This refers to the probiotics added to enhance the yogurt. Also look at the back of the carton for an ingredient list: probiotics are generally listed individually. Milk and cheese also come "enhanced" with probiotics. Supplements and liquid acidophilus are sold in most health food stores.
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