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Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of bacteria that is attracted to acid. It is often referred to as 'friendly' bacteria because of its helpful characteristics and the importance it has in the function of the human body. Acidophilus is found naturally in the intestines and in the vagina, where it protects the body from unhealthy organisms.

Certain products, such as contraceptive creams, however, can kill acidophilus, making it easier for undesirable organisms to attack the vagina. In addition, oral antibiotics can kill acidophilus. For this reason, patients who undergo extensive antibiotic therapy are often told to consume regular amounts of acidophilus in order to re-colonize the bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.

When acidophilus breaks down food it produces hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid and other byproducts. These byproducts create a hostile environment for unwelcome organisms. In addition, acidophilus uses nutrients that other microorganisms need. In this way, acidophilus kills harmful bacteria in the digestive tract by preventing these bacteria from receiving nutrients.

Acidophilus also has been shown to assist in producing folic acid, niacin, and pyridoxine during digestion. In addition, acidophilus helps with bile deconjugation and separates bile acids from amino acids. The amino acids can then be reused by the body. For these reasons, acidophilus is thought to also help protect the body against alcohol and other drugs, as well as from aging and stressful living.

Acidophilus is found in many forms of yogurt and it can also be found in special acidophilus milk. Foods such as carrots, rice starch, bananas, soybeans, garlic and garbanzo beans are also rich in acidophilus. In addition, acidophilus can be purchased in capsules, powder form, liquids, and tablets at health food stores. Some of these acidophilus products found at health stores also contain bifid bacteria, which is another bacterium that is helpful to the body. In addition, many contain vitamin C and other valuable nutrients. A drink can be made from the acidophilus powder and it is best to drink it or take another acidophilus supplement on an empty stomach, about an hour before meals.

Research has shown that acidophilus can prevent or stop the growth of Candida, also known as candidacies or yeast. Candidacies normally reside in the intestines, mouth, and genital area. It lives best in warm, moist environments. Therefore, this fungus is responsible for thrush, which is an overgrowth of yeast, in the esophagus, mouth, and vagina. If the yeast is left unattended, it can form into visible, white patches.

Yeast infections of the vagina can cause a white, thick, odorless discharge. It often resembles cottage cheese. Vaginal yeast infections can also cause burning and itching and redness and irritation of the vulva. In addition, a yeast infection can cause discomfort or even pain during urination or during sexual intercourse.

Yeast infections can also be the cause of diaper rash in babies. A yeast diaper rash is caused by the skin being damaged and yeast from the intestines invades the skin. This sort of rash usually occurs after using antibiotics or as the result of a prolonged rash. A yeast rash is red, raised and patchy. A paste made of water and acidophilus applied to the rash can help clear it up. Or, one teaspoon of acidophilus powder can be added to formula once per day for a baby who is being bottle fed.

Some reports have indicated that yogurt containing acidophilus aides in treating vaginal candidacies, or yeast infections. In fact, one study showed that women with recurring vaginal yeast infections who eat eight ounces of yogurt containing high levels of acidophilus every day have a significant reduction in the occurrence of the infection.

In addition, research has indicated that acidophilus helps improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal system and boosts the immune system. Patients have also reported that acidophilus helps with diarrhea, urinary tract infections and indigestion. They have also said that acidophilus helps sweeten the breath and treat acne.

A further study by Oklahoma State University showed that acidophilus might help in the reduction of serum cholesterol levels. Further research by the University of Kentucky has shown that acidophilus can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease for people who have high levels of blood serum cholesterol.