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Acidophilus
Acidophilus
is a friendly form of bacteria that is normally found in dairy products,
hence the term lactobacillus (Lacto meaning "milk", Bacillus
meaning "bacteria") Although the name comes from milk, not all
acidophilus products are derived directly from milk. Acidophilus works
together with many different enzymes and stomach acid to assist in the
digestion of protein. Some forms (particularly the milk-free type have
also been shown to have antifungal properties, reduce blood cholesterol,
aid digestion, and enhance absorption of nutrients.
The two main
forms are acidophilus, which works on the upper small intestines, and
bifidus, which works on the larger lower intestine including the colon.
Humans are normally expected to receive a lifetime supply of friendly
bacteria at birth, but due to the prevalence of antibiotics in the last
few decades, the mother is not usually able to provide this.
The friendly
bacteria are often called "pro-biotics", the opposite of "antibiotics",
and are often used following a regimen of antibiotics to replace the friendly
pro-biotics that may have been destroyed. It has been recommended that
they not be taken simultaneously; rather, it is more helpful to add the
pro-biotics at the end of the antibiotic treatment.
A minimum
of one billion cells are recommended, however larger amounts may be used
immediately following the antibiotic medication for a short period of
time to get a head start on the process.
It is important
to know whether random assays have been performed to insure that the amount
of organisms that was originally available at the time of manufacture
has not been depleted.
Acidophilus
can die at high temperatures so it is best to keep it in the refrigerator
although some forms have been "freeze-dried" and do not need
to be refrigerated. (1)
1. Prescription
for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch,
C.N.C.
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