Lactobacillus Acidophilus & Bulgaricus Probiotic Effects & Side Effects

Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus are two probiotic organisms found naturally within the microbiome of the human gut.

The human gut is home to trillions of microorganisms which are constantly competing with each other for nutrients and colonization territory. Adults have over three pounds of these bacteria and yeast microbes in their system at any given time.

Although most people associate the word bacteria with infectious processes, within a healthy human gastrointestinal tract, about 80% of the bacteria is considered beneficial to its human host.

These friendly bacterial agents are referred to as probiotic and if the balance of good to bad bacteria is thrown off for some reason, digestive problems and disorders can arise.

Probiotics

Digestive Supplement

Gut Health

Digestion

Immune Function

How It Works:

• Supports a healthy immune system & microflora
• Promotes digestion & nutrient absoprtion
• Combats pathogenic bacteria; Improves metabolism

Dosage:

Between 1 - 10 Billion CFUs per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Facts and Uses

Lactobacillus Acidophilus, or L. acidophilus, is a well-researched probiotic bacteria used as a starter agent in yogurts and other dairy products.

While Lactobacillus Bulgaricus is not as widely known, it is almost always included with L. acidophilus when it is used to ferment these common health food products.

Together, these two microorganisms are known to work symbiotically with other probiotic bacteria naturally found in the digestive system. This means they live and work in harmony with the other beneficial agents to inhibit and stifle the growth of pathogenic microbes trying to colonize the small and large intestine.

Bacteria from the Lactobacillus genus use a unique fermentation process to convert foods into acids which are used to lower the pH balance during certain stages of the digestive process. The resulting acidic environment makes it difficult for unhealthy bacteria to survive.

As a LAB (lactic acid-producing bacteria), L. Acidophilus’s effects are well-documented and proven. The combination with L. Bulgaricus may be useful for individuals who are lactose intolerant or have chronic diarrhea.

In addition, Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus has been reported to help relieve some symptoms experienced by individuals with disorders of the intestinal mucosa like leaky gut syndrome and IBD.

Lactobacillus Bulgaricus

Living within the mucous membrane that lines the GI tract, L. bulgaricus is tough enough to hold up against the harsh digestive juices secreted in the stomach. This microorganism is self-modulating, so it grows only when it is needed and decreases when it is not.

The intestinal mucosa acts as an interface, allowing the absorption of needed vitamins and nutrients out through the mucosal membrane, while also using it to prohibit toxins and harmful organisms from getting in.

The gut microflora can be thrown out of balance due to a variety of reasons. Common causes of imbalance include poor diet, high stress, illness, environmental toxins, antibiotic treatment and age.

If the intestinal mucosa becomes weakened due to bacterial dysbiosis, infectious diseases and symptoms are more likely to occur.

Supplementation with a quality probiotic containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus can aid in restoration and maintenance of this important barrier, preventing many germs and infectious microbes from adhering themselves to it.

Through the use of a fairly complex system involving partnerships with other probiotic microflora, incorporating signals and decoy strategies, adherence prevention is accomplished.

Other Benefits

Research suggests L. acidophilus, when used in combination with L. bulgaricus, may provide these beneficial effects on humans:

• decrease triglycerides, LDL levels and overall total cholesterol
• decrease symptoms associated with leaky gut
• decrease inflammation
• improve symptoms associated with IBS
• decrease tooth decay
• improve digestion of dairy products
• increase immunity

Side Effects

A majority of people can take probiotic supplements safely. Those who do report side effects, typically report bloating, flatulence or abdominal discomfort.

These symptoms usually subside with continued use, however, anyone experiencing side effects when taking probiotics should cease supplementation and consult their doctor.

Pregnant and nursing mothers should not commence a course of probiotic supplementation unless directed to do so by their obstetrician.

Although it is considered generally safe for children to take probiotics, every child’s system is different. Therefore, consult their pediatrician regarding species, strain and dose and follow their instructions.

Two populations who should not take probiotic supplements include people using medications which suppress immune function, and those whose immune system may be compromised due to illness or other cause.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bulgaricus Review

Probiotic supplements are often combined in synergistic formulas to enhance or promote optimal effects of the organisms throughout the gastrointestinal tract.

Lactobacillus bulgaricus can be helpful for specific symptoms involving the intestinal mucosal lining, particularly when it is supported by other symbiotic microorganisms like L. acidophilus.

This helpful lactic acid producing combination of bacteria can be found in health foods like yogurt but usually foods do not contain adequate quantities of the bacteria to offset any kind of imbalance in the gut microflora.

Supplements containing effective numbers of Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus strains are readily available in capsule, pill, tablet, powder and liquid forms.

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