What Is Acidophilus Probiotic Complex?

Acidophilus probiotic complex is a dietary supplement that contains live bacteria cultures for the purpose of enhancing digestion. Acidophilus is merely one particular type of probiotic culture out of 20 strains which have been shown by scientists to help regulate and improve digestion in the human intestine. In the past five years, commercial focus on acidophilus has increased significantly thanks to the production of myriad supplements and foods which are formulated with the culture.

History

• The health benefits of probiotic cultures were originally discovered in the early 20th century at the center for microbiology studies at the Pasteur Institute in France. While examining fermented dairy products, such as milk, and cheeses, Dr. Eli Metchnikoff became aware of the bacterial colonies which flourished in the souring food. These growths of bacteria, he noted, helped normalize the pH of the supposedly acidic food, which inspired him to examine how they would interact with a balanced pH in the human digestive tract.

Immediate Benefits

• Since Dr. Metchnikoff's initial research, over 20 unique strains of probiotic cultures, including acidophilus, have been identified and utilized to enhance digestive function. Acidophilus, like other strains of probiotics, are very beneficial to humans when taken on a regular basis. Initial benefits for taking acidophilus complexes include more frequent and easier to pass bowel movements as well as a decrease in constipation.

Long Term Benefits

• However, acidophilus also offers a host of long term benefits which are still in the process of being explored by scientists. There has been some evidence to suggest that taking acidophilus daily for long-term periods can result in a lowering of cholesterol, increased immune function, decreased blood pressure and a better tolerance of dairy products. Individuals who suffer from colitis or irritable bowel syndrome have also noted a decrease in their symptoms with daily use of acidophilus.

Side Effects

• Acidophilus probiotic complexes do the yield some minor side effects, such as diarrhea, increased gas, abdominal cramping, and bloating. However, these side effects may be treated by slowly introducing acidophilus into the diet and building up to daily use, as well as reducing the amount of dietary fiber taken in conjunction with acidophilus.

Types

• Acidophilus probiotic complexes can be incorporated into the diet by ingesting the cultures, either in a capsule form or through food. Capsules should be kept in the refrigerator to extend the life of the bacterial cultures, and are typically taken once a day with a meal. It is also possible to ingest an effective amount of acidophilus by eating food products, such as yogurts and milks, which have been formulated to specifically include acidophilus and other live active cultures.