Lactobacillus Acidophilus

What is Lactobacillus acidophilus?

Living in our guts are thousands of species of bacteria. In the colon alone there are thought to be between 300 and 1,000 different species. This is known as the 'gut microbiome'. Many of these are 'good' bacteria, and one of the best-known groups is the Lactobacillus family.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the most researched species and one of the earliest to be discovered in the Lactobacillus family. It breaks down sugars, such as lactose, into lactic acid.

What does the research say about Lactobacillus acidophilus?

A review of the research has looked at its roles in the body, including in cholesterol metabolism and in producing substances that act against other microbes. Specific strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus have been studied alongside other Lactobacillus strains and alongside a Bifidobacterium strain in trials that looked at digestive wellbeing and quality of life.

In women, the vaginal microbiome is made up of a range of microorganisms. Lactobacilli are usually the main bacteria there, and Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the species found. They produce lactic acid, which keeps the vaginal environment slightly acidic.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is an important part of the gut microbiome, but it's worth remembering that the relationship is a mutual one. To thrive, these bacteria need to be fed. Gut bacteria rely on fibrous prebiotics as their food, so we need prebiotics in our diet. One of the best-known prebiotics is inulin, which can be found in a range of fruit and vegetables.

Form: Live bacteria.

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