What Is an Acidophilus Supplement?

Acidophilus supplements contain bacteria that normally lives in the digestive track (specifically, the small intestine). It serves as a probiotic, which means it helps the body to keep its supply of helpful bacteria normal and balanced. In addition to being available in pill form, acidophilus is also present in yogurt and other dairy products.

Benefits

• Acidophilus supplements have been demonstrated to help keep the bowels healthy. Some people have used acidophilus supplements to treat yeast infections, help with diarrhea, aid in the digestion of lactose, lower cholesterol, and otherwise help stave off disease by preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. It has also been suggested that acidophilus may help prevent certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer, by neutralizing dietary carcingogens and killing tumor cells. In addition, some medical practitioners believe that acidophilus can boost the immune system.

History

• Acidophilus has been used since the 1800s, when the Balkans were believed to live long lives because of their consumption of fermented milk.

Dosage

• The recommended dosage of acidophilus is between 1 and 10 billion bacteria. Dosage suggestions vary by the brand of supplement, but generally it is advised to take between one and three tablets/capsules daily.

Evidence

• There are no human studies that demonstrate acidophilus has the ability to affect cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, some studies have suggested that acidophilus tablets can lower cholesterol, while others have not, and there has been some success with using acidophilus tablets to lower the risk of diarrhea.

Side Effects

• Most people can tolerate acidophilus without side effects. In some cases there can be mild digestive bloating, but this is usually temporary as the body adjusts to the supplements.