Acidophilus for Bladder Infections

Bladder infections cause millions of visits to doctors every year in the United States alone. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the majority of all women will develop a urinary tract infection during their lifetimes. Bladder infections cause cramping as well as frequent, urgent and painful urination. Untreated or chronic bladder infections can lead to serious health issues such as kidney infection or interstitial cystitis. Natural therapies, such as taking acidophilus, are becoming more common as complementary treatments for bladder infections.

Cause of Bladder Infections

• Bladder infections are often caused by external bacteria infecting the urethra and bladder. In women, the urethra is short and oriented near the vagina and anus. This close proximity allows easy access to harmful bacteria. For men, the cause of a bladder infection can be related to prostate problems. In all cases, a lowered immune system promotes the possibility of an infection. Factors that can lower an immune system include stress, antibiotics, poor diet and oral contraceptives.

What is Acidophilus?

• Lactobacillus acidophilus is a strain of bacteria that is beneficial and colonizes the small intestine and vagina in humans. It helps the digestion process of proteins and increases nutrient absorption. (See reference 4, p. 74) It produces vitamin K and lactase. Acidophilus also produces acidophilin, lactocidin and bacteriocin, which are substances that have antimicrobial activity. (See reference 2) Healthy levels of acidophilus in the intestines averages around 85%. Unfortunately, most people average 15% acidophilus in the intestines due to poor diet. Increased presence of harmful bacteria in the intestinal tract can lead to greater risk of its exposure to the urethra and bladder by proximity. (See reference 4, p. 74)

Immune Boosting Benefits of Acidophilus

• Due to its antimicrobial, antifungal and absorption enhancing actions, acidophilus helps to maintain and boost the immune system. It also produces lactic acid, vitamin B, hydrogen peroxide and natural antibiotics. Just the physical presence of acidophilus colonies in the intestine and vagina deter the attachment and growth of harmful bacteria and fungus. Acidophilus also helps to increase immune function after antibiotics have been taken. As antibiotics kill bacteria indiscriminately, the beneficial bacteria can repopulate and create a healthier internal environment.

Acidophilus for Bladder Infections

• As previously stated, acidophilus is a powerful combatant to harmful bacteria and helps to increase immune system function. It also helps to fight bacteria through its anti-adhesion properties. This action prevents bacteria from attaching to surfaces. In a healthy vaginal environment, acidophilus strains have demonstrated antagonistic activity against some of the strains of bacteria that commonly cause bladder infections.

Taking Acidophilus

• Acidophilus is widely available in health-food stores and comes in a variety of forms. It is normally cultured in a dairy base however, non-dairy-based acidophilus is available. It is important to take acidophilus during a bladder infection, especially if antibiotics are being taken. It can also be taken on a preventive basis to maintain proper levels in the intestines and to continue to boost immune function.