An Acidophilus supplement is an important component in a balanced diet. Acidophilus is a probiotic, helping to regulate the levels of good bacteria in your body. This has implications for your digestive processes and the health of a range of important bodily systems. It is these healthy bacteria that are responsible for breaking down food in your colon, making many nutrients available for use by your body. The best Acidophilus supplements come as easy to take tablets or capsules, and can be found relatively inexpensively online, at health food stores, or pharmacies. Let’s take a look at what is in these supplements and how they work.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement

Lactobacillus Acidophilus is a bacterium that produces lactic acid and is believed to improve digestive function and general health and wellbeing. Lactobacillus Acidophilus dietary supplement boosts naturally occurring bacteria in the digestive system, however during times of gastro-intestinal illness and over indulgence in alcohol the level of this bacteria can drop. When this happens it can create problems related to poor digestion such as cramping, constipation, diarrhoea, poor immune function and even vaginal thrush.

It is possible to regain a balance of these good bacteria by taking probiotic supplements which are readily available from your local pharmacy in capsule form. Another option is to eat fresh yoghurt on an empty stomach and wait at least half an hour before eating anything else. Greek yoghurt with no added sugars is best and the label should say that it contains live L. Acidophilus cultures.

The next step is to re-evaluate your diet and give your stomach a rest for a couple of days while it rebuilds its good bacteria stock. Cutting back on meat and dairy(except for fresh yoghurt) , eating more fresh fruit and vegetables and drinking plenty of water is the kindest thing you can do for your body at this point and will allow your good bacteria stocks to get back on track.

Despite many reported health benefits of taking a Lactobacillus Acidophilus supplement, no conclusive medical studies have been done. However many doctors advise patients to include foods like yoghurt in their diets after taking a course of antibiotics, which can kill good bacteria in your body along with the bad.

Because they contain live bacteria, Lactobacillus Acidophilus supplements should be transported and stored in cool conditions. Read the label carefully, but most brands should be stored below 40F (4.5C). This means storing your supplement in the fridge.

Probiotic Acidophilus supplements are not all alike. Buying a reputable band is advised, from a supplier who has stored the product appropriately. When it comes to interpreting the label, you will find that the strength is listed in CFU (Colony Forming Units). The recommended daily dose ranges from 1 to 4 billion CFU, translating to 1-2 capsules of 1-2 CFU strength. Obviously if swallowing a tablet or capsule is difficult for you, choose a product with higher strength so you have to take less to get the correct dosage. Acidophilus supplements Should be taken on an empty stomach, once per day or as recommended by your doctor.