Acidophilus Explained
What It Is
Acidophilus is a powder form of the normal, friendly bacteria that live in our intestines (called flora). Our intestinal flora helps regulate our digestion and stool patterns. Yeast also lives in our intestines. The yeast and the bacterial flora are constantly competing for space, and generally they keep each other in check. Sometimes, however, our bacterial flora can get depleted, such as when taking antibiotics. This allows the yeast to overgrow, which can then lead to a variety of problems:
Taking acidophilus replenishes our bacterial flora and reduces overgrow of yeast.
Dr. Sears suggests: Take an acidophilus supplement, or try another probiotic.
How To Take It
Acidophilus is available at most health food and nutrition stores. It comes in two forms –- capsules and powder.
• Adults – take the capsules as directed on the bottle.
• children – capsules are ok if able to swallow, otherwise give 1 teaspoon of the powder once a day in milk, juice, or food.
• Infants – make a paste using water or breastmilk and rub this once a day in baby’s mouth, or put 1 teaspoon of the powder in formula once a day if bottlefeeding.
When To Take It
We suggest you begin acidophilus at the start of any of the above problems, as well as when taking antibiotics. Continue taking it for one week after the problem or antibiotic is finished.