Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsBenefitsFood SourcesSupplementsDosageSide EffectsPrecautionsInteractionsStorageSimilar Supplements
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Benefits
Food Sources
Supplements
Dosage
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Storage
Similar Supplements
Lactobacillus acidophilus(L. acidophilus)is a type of good bacteria located in your gastrointestinal tract. Also found in supplements and foods like sauerkraut and kombucha, it works as aprobioticto balance bacteria in your body so that potentially harmful strains will not flourish.
In complementary alternative medicine,L. acidophilushas many uses and may prevent or treat several health conditions, likediarrhea,irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),high cholesterol, andbacterial vaginosis.It’s sometimes called probiotic acidophilus and belongs to theLactobacillusfamily of bacteria.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplement products the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
L. acidophilus is added to foods like yogurt and is also found in fermented foods.marekuliasz / Getty Images
Benefits of Lactobacillus Acidophilus
AlthoughL. acidophilusis one of the more extensively studied probiotics, findings have varied widely due to differences in patient populations, bacteria strains, and other factors. Consult a healthcare provider before usingL. acidophilusto determine if it is an appropriate supplement for you.
Here are some health conditions that studies show can be improved withL. acidophilus.
Diarrhea
Your healthcare provider may recommendL. acidophilusto treat diarrhea.
Another recent review showedL. acidophiluscan reduce the duration ofdiarrheain children. After looking at 15 trials, researchers from the review found that children who usedL. acidophilushad shorter bouts of diarrhea compared to those who took aplacebo.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Probiotics such asL. acidophiluscan also help withirritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
A review ofL. acidophilusfound some evidence that the bacteria strain could reduceabdominal painand discomfort in those with IBS. However, the review also noted that not all human trials onL. acidophilusfor IBS could offer proven positive results. In fact, some studies have foundL. acidophilushas unwanted side effects in those with IBS.
Additionally, a recent randomized controlled trial foundL. acidophilushelped reduce IBS-associated abdominal pain and symptom severity more than a placebo.
Bacterial Vaginosis
L. acidophilusmay help to prevent and treat vaginal infections, includingbacterial vaginosis (BV)andyeast infections.
According to one review, daily intake ofL. acidophilussupplements may help prevent and treat BV, a common vaginal infection that results from an imbalance in the types of bacteria in the vagina.
Like other strains of theLactobacillusfamily,L. acidophilusmay haveantimicrobialproperties that make it a potentially useful treatment for BV.
Yeast Infections
L. acidophilusmay also have antifungal properties, making it a potential treatment foryeast infections. Laboratory research shows thatL. acidophilusand other probiotics may inhibit the growth of the fungusCandida albicans,which is a common cause of yeast infections.
A 2015 clinical trial foundL. acidophilusmay help lower the risk of recurring yeast infections followingstandard medical treatment.
High Cholesterol
Several studies show that the probioticL. acidophiluscan reduce a person’s total cholesterol levels. The probiotic plays a role in reducing the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed.Compared with other probiotic strains,L. acidophiluswas more effective at lowering cholesterol levels than others.
Immune Health
L. acidophilusmay also have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. These properties may makeL. acidophilusa treatment option for respiratory infections.Although more research needs to be done, probiotic supplementation may also be one way to support immunity against COVID-19.
Supplement FactsActive ingredient(s):Lactobacillus acidophilusAlternate name(s):L. acidophilus,Acidophilus,Acidophilus BifidusLegal status:Legal in the U.S. and available over the counterSuggested dose:Dosage typically varies but may be as high as 60 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per day for up to six months in adults.Safety considerations: Side effects may include gas and bloating.
Supplement Facts
Active ingredient(s):Lactobacillus acidophilusAlternate name(s):L. acidophilus,Acidophilus,Acidophilus BifidusLegal status:Legal in the U.S. and available over the counterSuggested dose:Dosage typically varies but may be as high as 60 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per day for up to six months in adults.Safety considerations: Side effects may include gas and bloating.
A food-first approach to nutrients (includingprobiotics) is always preferable. There is no solid evidence that probiotic foods are superior to probiotic supplements, but food forms ofL. acidophilusmay be preferred.WhileL. acidophilusis not widely found in foods, some products are fortified with the probiotic strain.
Food products that may be fortified withL. acidophilusinclude:
Not all brands of these foods will containL. acidophilus, so check the ingredient list on the nutrition label to see what is included.
L. acidophilusmay also be present in additionalfermented foods, like kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut, and sourdough bread.
Benefits of Kefir for IBS
L. acidophilussupplements are sold in various forms, including capsules, chewable tablets, beverages, powders, and suppositories.
L. acidophilusis sometimes combined with other probiotics and nutrients to make supplements.These products are available at health-food stores, supermarkets, drugstores, and online.
There is a variety ofL. acidophilusformulations. Because of this, you may benefit from reading labels and looking for two things in particular:
Some probiotic supplements may contain milk allergens or traces oflactose. If you are allergic to milk proteins, lactose intolerant, or vegan, look for a supplement that is labeled dairy-free.
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
Adults who takeL. acidophilusoften do so in doses of up to 60 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per day. Typically, it’s takenfor up to six months.
Children should take smaller doses of up to 30 billion CFUs daily for no more than three months.
Please follow the directions on the supplement packaging or check with a healthcare provider for an appropriateL. acidophilusdosage.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Lactobacillus Acidophilus?
AlthoughL. acidophilusis generally considered safe, there has not been sufficient testing for safety. Also, like most other supplements, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved it as a treatment for health conditions.
Though there are no well-documented reports regarding the toxicity ofL. acidophilus, taking too much of any supplement or probiotic could increase your risk of side effects.
If you take too muchL. acidophilus,you may experience common side effects like gas and bloating.
Get Rid of Gas and Bloating Fast
What Are the Side Effects of Lactobacillus Acidophilus?
Although generally considered safe, usingL. acidophilusmay cause mild or severe side effects.
Common Side Effects
Many studies onL. acidophilushave reported little to no adverse events.
When side effects do occur, they tend to be mild. Side effects ofL. acidophilusinclude digestive complaints, likegasandbloating.
If side effects do not improve or worsen, discontinueL. acidophilusand consult a healthcare provider.
Can Bloating Cause Shortness of Breath?
Severe Side Effects
Although rare, severe side effects may occur when usingL. acidophilus.
A minor risk of infection related to the use ofL. acidophilusis also possible.Probiotics likeL. acidophilushave caused blood infections in some people with weakened immune systems. There is also a low risk of infection of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis) from taking probiotics, includingL. acidophilus.
Always speak with a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you have a weakened immune system or other health conditions. A healthcare provider can also help you determine the proper supplement dose, which may lower your risk of side effects.
Some people may need to take special precautions when usingL. acidophilus.
L. acidophilusis assumed safe for those who arepregnantorbreastfeedingas long as it is used appropriately. For this reason, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should speak to a healthcare provider before takingL. acidophilus.
Due to a greater risk of adverse events and complications, those with aweakened immune systemshould seek medical advice before takingL. acidophilus.
Likewise, you should seek guidance before takingL. acidophilusif you have a damaged heart valve. Although rare, there is a minimal risk of infection of the inner lining of the heart from takingL. acidophilus.
It’s important to be aware of medications, supplements, or foods that may negatively interact withL. acidophilus.
For the most part,L. acidophilusis thought to have few, if any, interactions.
Antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness ofL. acidophilus.To avoid this interaction, antibiotics should be taken at least two hours before or afterL. acidophilus.
How to Store Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Depending on the manufacturing processes, someL. acidophilusproducts need refrigeration, while others are shelf-stable. Store probiotics as directed on the label and minimize contact with air.
Store supplements in a cool, dry place and keep them out of direct sunlight. Also, keep them out of the reach of pets and small children.
Discard any remainingL. acidophilussupplements when they reach their expiration date.
Research suggests thatL. acidophilusmay help with gut health, vaginal health, and immune health. However,L. acidophilusis not the only supplement that may do so.
Supplements that are similar toL. acidophilusinclude:
Consult your healthcare provider about which supplement is right for you.
Summary
L. acidophilusis a probiotic (“good” bacteria) that may benefit gut health, vaginal health, and immune health, as well as potentially lower cholesterol levels. Although, some research results on these and other uses are mixed. It is naturally found in some foods but is available in supplement form.
If you’re considering takingL. acidophilusfor any condition, consult a healthcare provider to confirm if it’s appropriate and safe for you.
Bacillus Coagulans
19 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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