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"Acidophilus - Relief From Irritable Bowel Syndrome"Acidophilus is the general name given to a group of 'friendly' bacteria known as Probiotics. They are commonly added to milk or sold in capsule form and contain one or more of the following bacteria:
They are considered to be 'friendly' bacteria because they offer a number of valuable health functions. They help to suppress 'bad' bacteria, improve the function of the immune system, protect the body from parasites and also enhance the protective barrier of the digestive tract. [Top] Among the many functions of Acidophilus
This can prevent you from obtaining the full nutritional value of the foods you eat. Fewer vitamins are absorbed and the function of the immune system is impaired. Google News reports that taking Acidophilus capsules, or eating yogurt could help those suffering from allergies. In one small study, individuals were given milk containing probiotics, or milk that didn't contain probiotics. It has been used to normalize the ratio of good to bad bacteria in the intestinal tract and vagina. Some studies have found when taken orally or inserted in the vagina as a douche, it may prevent or control yeast infections. It is also been known to detoxify toxic substances in our diets. It may also alleviate symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and possibly, Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It may also improve lactose absorption in those individuals that are lactose intolerant. [Top] What Causes You To Lose These Bacteria? Diarrhea, for example, flushes valuable bacteria from the intestinal tract making the body susceptible to opportunistic infections. Replenishing these bacteria with Probiotics can prevent infections from forming.
Antibiotics can disrupt this normal ratio of good to bad bacteria. Acidophilus can help restore normal levels of bacteria in the intestinal tract. [Top] Ongoing Studies Lab studies evaluating the use of Probiotics to prevent Cancer have been mixed. However, it has been found to slow the growth of breast and colon Cancer cells grown in the laboratory. Animal studies in this area look promising. Further research is needed to see if this anti-cancer capability applies to humans.
Yogurt contains Acidophilus. Be sure that the label states that it contains live active cultures of these bacteria mentioned above. [Top] Recommended Dosages The recommended daily dosage of these bacteria will vary according to the condition. To treat or prevent diarrhea, you should take between one and two billion viable cells of Probiotics daily. Eating 8 oz, of Yogurt daily, can treat a vaginal infection. Be sure that the Yogurt contains live active cultures, however. Inserting one to two capsules of Acidophilus into the vaginal area daily can be a beneficial treatment for Cystitis. If you have a vaginal or urinary tract infection, you should see your physician before treating it yourself. A lack of these beneficial bacteria can cause bad breath. [Top] Contraindications Consumption of these bacteria is generally considered safe. However, patients with abnormal heart valves who have lately gone through dental manipulation, endocarditis caused by Lactobacillus species have been reported. If you are considering the use of these bacteria, or if you are breast-feeding please consult your physician first. This supplement has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, and purity. It comes in a variety of forms including capsules, tablets, powders, douche, and liquid. In general, they should be protected from light and moisture and stored in a cool, dry place. There is no known toxicity from taking large amounts of this supplement. Subscribe to the Home Remedies Blog by clicking on this link:  Return From Acidophilus to Home Page
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If there is too small a colony of these beneficial bacteria, digestion may be impaired. 
There is a condition called “Travelers Diarrhea” which is caused by drinking contaminated water or eating uncooked foods. You minimize the risk of developing this condition by taking these bacteria .
There is some speculation they may help with respiratory ailments, such as 
