Acidophiles are a a group of bacteria that are a natural part of the intestines, mouth and vagina. They are characterized because they belong to the family of lactic acid bacteria, which are used in the preparation of fermented foods and have clinical applications. They are also part of the famous probiotics.
Part of its inclusion within the latter is due to its participation in the maintenance of the intestinal microbiota. Plus, they’re so versatile that they’re used to treat vaginal inflammation, depression, and other ailments.
We found them as freeze-dried bacteria in the form of capsules, tablets, powders, wafers and even pessaries. But they are also part of many fermented foods, both of animal and vegetable origin.
In this article we will address their benefits, where to find them and the care of their intake. So stay with us to show you how such a small bacterium can improve health.
What are acidophiles?
Acidophiles are a group of bacteria known to science as Lactobacillus acidophilus. They are part of the normal flora of the vagina, mouth and intestinal microflora. They are classified as lactic acid bacteria, are fermenters and do not produce toxins.
belong to probiotics because they bring health benefits. As pointed out by magazine bmj, eating probiotics can improve digestion. They also protect against harmful germs, creating an acidic environment that is unfavorable for pathogens.
These bacteria ferment carbohydrates (such as lactose) into lactic acid.. Along with other bacteria, they are also used in pharmaceuticals.
Health benefits of acidophilus
Science proves that acidophiles can improve from a yeast infection to a mental health problem, like depression. Let’s see what the main advantages are.
Relieves the symptoms of lactose intolerance
THE Spanish journal of digestive diseases he estimates it 80% of the world’s population suffers from lactose intolerance. Many of his symptoms resemble those of irritable bowel. These include gas, bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Acidophilus in the form of supplements are able to relieve the symptoms of intolerance by helping to break down the lactose contained in foods.
In a study published in the journal Nutrition Journal, a group of people with lactose intolerance took acidophilus supplements to combat symptoms. The results showed reduction of abdominal cramps, vomiting and diarrhea.
Fight fungal and bacterial infections
Candidiasis is an infection caused by the overgrowth of a yeast. found naturally in the body. The most common clinical form is vaginal infectionwhich causes burning, itching, inflammation and flow.
Lactobacilli acidophilus are part of the normal vaginal flora and produce lactic acid to keep the vagina slightly acidic. If the vagina loses acidity, harmful bacteria can grow.
He studio webb lauren explains that acidophiles it can help treat and prevent bacterial vaginosis. This occurs because they increase the amount of lactobacilli in the vagina, helping restore the natural balance.
On the other hand, when long courses of antibiotics are consumed, fungal infections can also occur. For this reason, lactobacilli acidophilus should be indicated together with antibiotics, to preserve the balance of the flora.
It could fight depression
For some time now, it has been discovered that intestinal bacteria influence the chemicals released by the brain. Thus, a link has been established between gut health and depression.
A revision on this issue concluded that the consumption of probiotics is associated with a significant reduction in depression. Also, specify that acidophilus can reduce the symptoms of this disease.
Improving inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
THE inflammatory bowel disease comprises a group of chronic intestinal disorders of unknown cause. Includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Both present with diarrhea, cramps, and weight loss.
A meta-analysis of controlled studies found that probiotic administration produces additional benefits by increasing symptom-free periods in patients with idiopathic ulcerative colitis.
Soothe Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
At present, the cause of IBS is not well known. This is a digestive disorder that causes diarrhea, bloating, constipation and other symptoms.
Research suggests that a lack of balance between the microorganisms that are part of the gut microbiota could be a trigger.
A gastroenterology office revealed that acidophilus and other probiotics improve symptoms of IBS. However, more research is needed to understand the role played by the gut microbiota in this pathology.
They act on the immune system
A revision reveals that probiotics They can prevent or alleviate some diseases of the gastrointestinal system. They can even balance the functions of the microflora and modulate the immune response.
It is therefore suggested to use them as an alternative treatment in the prevention of diarrhea and immune-dependent diseases, such as allergies, intestinal inflammation and viral infections.
Improves Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) Symptoms
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a disorder that causes a variety of symptoms, including tiredness, lethargy, muscle or joint pain, malaise, trouble sleeping, and difficulty concentrating.
Some health professionals make sure the cause of the CFS has to do with the absence of gut health. In essays with laboratory rats that were induced with CFS, when acidophilus was administered, the symptoms disappeared. However, human studies are needed.
They could control lung infections and eczema
acidophilus could reduce the number and severity of respiratory infections in children. On the other hand, it has also been observed that, when taken as supplements, they manage to control atopic dermatitis in pregnancy, in nursing mothers and in newborns.
Sources of acidophilus and how to use it
Acidophilus is found in both foods and supplements. Among the foods supplied by these lactobacilli are the following:
- Yogurt.
- kefir.
- Tempeh.
- miso.
- Sauerkraut.
- kombucha.
- Curd.
As supplements they are found in different forms: tablets, capsules, powder, wafers and suppositories for vaginal infections.
How you use it will depend on what your doctor has told you. The common thing is to ingest them through fermented milk and yogurt with probiotics.
It is recommended to check the label of fermented foods and other vegetables to make sure that acidophilus is part of the strain seeded in the food. In the case of supplements, you should choose trusted brands and follow the instructions on the packaging.
Side effects
Acidophilus and other probiotics are safe with almost no side effects. However, some people who use them have reported gas, bloating, and other digestive upsets.
Unlike drugs, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is not as strict in regulating probiotics. But some brands that retain the microorganism are recommended I live.
Certain health conditionssuch as recent surgery or immunosuppression, require close monitoring when taking probiotics, as its intake could lead to complications. But only in these cases.
Can acidophilus be included in healthy diets?
Acidophils are health-promoting bacteria. They can be part of a healthy diet. They maintain good intestinal and digestive function.
Also, it can be used for the treatment of various diseases. You can find them in foods and supplements. Choose the best form of consumption after consulting your healthcare professional.
The post Acidophilus: what they are and what their benefits are first appeared in research-school.