Acidophilus (Probiotics) and Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS)

Beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, are called probiotics. Probiotic bacteria favorably alter the intestinal microflora balance, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, promote good digestion, boost immune function, and increase resistance to infection.¹ ² Individuals with flourishing intestinal colonies of beneficial bacteria are better equipped to fight the growth of disease-causing bacteria.³ ⁴

What do they do? Acidophilus and bifidobacteria maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora by producing organic compounds—such as lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and acetic acid—that increase the acidity of the intestine and inhibit the reproduction of many harmful bacteria.⁵ ⁶ Probiotic bacteria also produce substances called bacteriocins, which act as natural antibiotics to kill undesirable microorganisms.⁷

Regular ingestion of probiotic bacteria may help prevent vaginal yeast infection.⁸ ⁹ A review of the research concluded that both topical and oral use of acidophilus can prevent yeast infection caused by candida overgrowth.¹⁰

Diarrhea flushes intestinal microorganisms out of the gastrointestinal tract, leaving the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections. Replenishing the beneficial bacteria with probiotic supplements can help prevent new infections. The incidence of “traveler’s diarrhea,” caused by pathogenic bacteria in drinking water or undercooked foods, can be reduced by the preventive use of probiotics.¹¹

Probiotics are also important in recolonizing the intestine during and after antibiotic use. Probiotic supplements replace the beneficial bacteria, preventing up to 50% of infections occurring after antibiotic use.¹²

Probiotics also promote healthy digestion. Enzymes secreted by probiotic bacteria aid digestion. Acidophilus is a source of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest milk, which is lacking in lactose-intolerant individuals.¹³ Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome may be alleviated by increased acidophilus intake.¹⁴

Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are naturally occurring carbohydrates that cannot be digested or absorbed by humans but support the growth of beneficial bacteria.¹⁵

Where are they found? Beneficial bacteria present in fermented dairy foods, namely live culture yogurt, have been used as a folk remedy for hundreds if not thousands of years. Yogurt is the traditional source of beneficial bacteria; however, different brands of yogurt can vary greatly in their bacteria strain and potency. Some (particularly frozen) yogurts do not contain any live bacteria. Supplements in powder, liquid extract, capsule, or tablet form containing beneficial bacteria are a source of probiotics.

FOS occur naturally in many foods, such as bananas, barley, garlic, honey, onions, wheat, and tomatoes; however, nutritional supplements containing FOS provide a more concentrated source of these compound.

• diarrhea

• immune function

• indigestion and heartburn

• infection

• irritable bowel syndrome

• lactose intolerance

• mouth ulcers (canker sores)

• vaginitis

• yeast infection

Who is likely to be deficient? Several groups of people are more likely to have depleted colonies of friendly bacteria. These include people using antibiotics, eating a poor diet, or suffering from diarrhea.

How much should I take? The amount of probiotics necessary to replenish the intestine varies by the extent of microbial depletion and presence of harmful bacteria. In general, many people find 1-2 billion colony forming units (CFUs) per day of acidophilus to be beneficial for the healthy maintenance of intestinal microflora. FOS is generally taken in the amount of 8 grams per day.

Are there any side effects or interactions? There are no reported side effects with even large intakes of probiotic bacteria.

Acidophilus and bifidobacteria may produce B vitamins, including niacin, folic acid, biotin, and vitamin B6.

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