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Information on Lactobacillus

The Food for Living Channel claims that the average human gut contains over one kilogram of bacteria. Instead of making us sick, however, lactobacillus keeps us well because it fights off other, less benevolent bacteria that might otherwise wreak havoc with our health.

  1. Description

    • Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology describes lactobacillus as a form of bacteria found in whole milk. According to the Food for Living Channel, lactobacillus and other "functional foods" known as probiotics can increase the body's armory of good bacteria to help prevent or cure health problems.

    Types

    • Varieties of lactobacillus include lactobacillus casei Shirota, lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, and lactobacillus casei Immunitas, according to the Food for Living Channel. The Mayo Clinic also mentions a strain known as lactobacillus acidophilus.

    Supplementation

    • The Mayo Clinic reports that lactobacillus has demonstrated at least some value against irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, yeast infections and other disorders.

    Safety

    • Lactobacillus appears to cause no harm to healthy individuals when taken at normal dosages, apart from minor gas or internal discomfort, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Cautions

    • The Mayo Clinic warns against giving lactobacillus to children without a doctor's advice, especially if the child is less than 3 years old.

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