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Lactobacillus Acidophilus Extract

Also known as: Acidophilus, L. acidophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus

Overview

*Lactobacillus acidophilus* is a species of probiotic bacteria belonging to the lactic acid bacteria group. Found in fermented foods such as yogurt and kefir, and in the human gastrointestinal tract, it plays a crucial role in digestive health. Commonly used as a dietary supplement, its key benefits include support for gut health, enhancement of the immune system, and potential reduction of cholesterol levels. The existing research shows promise, particularly in cholesterol management and gastrointestinal stability, although further studies are needed to clarify its effects across other health domains. Its mechanism centers around lactic acid production, establishing a favorable gut environment. Despite moderate research maturity, studies have demonstrated its efficacy, particularly in children experiencing acute gastroenteritis, while the overall safety profile is generally favorable for most populations.

Benefits

Evidence-based benefits of *Lactobacillus acidophilus* include: - **Cholesterol Reduction:** A meta-analysis indicated that probiotics, including *L. acidophilus*, can lower total cholesterol by approximately 0.17 mmol/L and LDL cholesterol by about 0.22 mmol/L. These results, while statistically significant, may not always show clinical significance for every individual. - **Gastrointestinal Health:** Research shows that this probiotic can reduce the duration and frequency of diarrhea in children with acute gastroenteritis when high doses (greater than 10^9 CFU) are used. - **Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea:** There is mixed evidence suggesting potential benefits in preventing diarrhea related to antibiotic use, although most studies involve multiple probiotic strains. Overall, *L. acidophilus* may confer specific advantages to populations like children suffering from gastroenteritis.

How it works

*Lactobacillus acidophilus* works primarily by modulating gut microbiota. It ferments carbohydrates, producing lactic acid, which helps lower the pH of the gut environment, thus inhibiting pathogen growth and enhancing gut barrier function. This probiotic can influence lipid metabolism and immune responses, promoting overall gut health and potentially assisting in cholesterol management. Its effects are localized, as probiotics generally do not enter the bloodstream but exert their benefits within the gastrointestinal tract.

Side effects

Generally considered safe, *Lactobacillus acidophilus* can cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances in some individuals, such as bloating or gas, experienced by over 5% of users. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may involve allergic reactions or increased infection risk in immunocompromised individuals. Serious adverse effects, like sepsis, are rare but have been reported in severely immunocompromised patients. As a precaution, safety is advised regarding immunosuppressive medications. It is also recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women consult healthcare professionals before starting supplementation. Overall, while the safety profile is positive for most, individual health conditions should be considered.

Dosage

Recommended dosages for *Lactobacillus acidophilus* typically range from 1 to 10 billion CFU per day, commencing at higher doses for specific benefits, such as reducing diarrhea in acute gastroenteritis (>10^9 CFU). There are no established maximum safe limits, as it is generally well tolerated at standard dosages. Administration with food is encouraged to improve survivability through the stomach. The probiotic can be consumed via capsules, tablets, or through fermented food sources, with neither specific cofactors required to increase effectiveness.

FAQs

How should Lactobacillus acidophilus be stored?

Lactobacillus acidophilus should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its viability. Refrigeration is recommended for prolonged shelf life.

Is it safe for everyone to use Lactobacillus acidophilus?

Generally safe for most, but those who are severely immunocompromised should avoid it due to infection risk.

When is the best time to take Lactobacillus acidophilus?

It is best taken with meals to enhance survival through the stomach and improve effectiveness.

How long until I see results from Lactobacillus acidophilus?

Benefits on cholesterol levels and gut health may take several weeks to become noticeable, with longer interventions generally yielding better results.

Are all probiotics the same?

No, different strains have unique effects. It's crucial to choose a specific strain like Lactobacillus acidophilus for targeted benefits.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/gastroenterology/articles/10.3389/fgstr.2022.983075/full – This meta-analysis covers eleven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that establish the cholesterol-lowering effects of probiotics, including *L. acidophilus*, highlighting significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL levels, although there was noted heterogeneity among studies.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26473340/ – A systematic review involving children with acute gastroenteritis suggests *L. acidophilus* may effectively reduce the duration and frequency of diarrhea, although the quality of evidence varies.
https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/A-Systematic-Review-and-Meta-Analysis:-acidophilus-Cheng-Ma/2d73fe56771e3971012bb7a9f4ff22b12169130c – This systematic review examines multiple studies on *Lactobacillus acidophilus* and its impact on diarrhea, emphasizing limited beneficial evidence, especially for clinical applications.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6766509/ – This older research explored the probiotics' effects on diarrhea treatment, supporting the notion that *L. acidophilus* provides minimal clinical benefits under specific contexts.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2018.00124/full – A comprehensive review that highlights various therapeutic applications of probiotics, investigating the role of *L. acidophilus* in health maintenance and disease prevention.