The Identification of Lactobacillus

Lactobacillus refers to a family of "good" or "friendly" bacteria. These organisms occur naturally in the human body, particularly in the small intestine and the vagina. These bacteria are considered healthy for a variety of reasons.

Benefits

• Lactobacillus is beneficial because of its aid in the production of lactase (the enzymes that break down dairy products), vitamin K and anti-microbial agents. These anti-microbial substances help the body fight off a number of "bad" or "unfriendly" bacteria. Lactobacillus can help prevent diarrhea, bacterial vaginal infections and lung infections in children.

Sources of Lactobacillus

• While Lactobacillus is found naturally in the body, antibiotics and other drugs can deplete the body's natural supply. This can caused fungal infections, such as vaginal yeast infections. In these cases, finding outside sources of Lactobacillus can be helpful. Lactobacillus is found in foods, such as yogurt. It is also available in dietary supplements.

Identification of Strains of Lactobacillus

• There are many varieties of Lactobacillus, several of which are found in the body. Listing all these species is difficult, since scientists doing microscopic genetic testing are finding that current species have been mislabeled. These scientists are also finding additional varieties that were previously unknown. Identification of the various types has been based on culturing and biochemical tests, both of which were unreliable. Recently, scientists have developed methods for identifying Lactobacillus species on the molecular level. These methods are still in the experimental stages.