Many of us automatically think "bad" when we think "bacteria." Our intestines have communities of good and bad microorganisms. Some of these microflora can be opportunists. They do not cause disease until the balance among them is upset or until they lodge in other parts of the body. It is true that, some bacteria can cause infections. But when the digestive system is functioning properly these little organisms don’t even stand a chance beyond the stomach as the acidity in the stomach will stop them in their tracks.

Your digestive tract is host to about 400 different kinds of bacteria and yeasts. Among these, Lactobacillus acidophilus and other members of the Lactobacillus family are especially important to your health. Acidophilus is considered a "probiotic" bacteria because it helps to maintain intestinal health, and serves as a natural antibiotic against potentially harmful organisms. Taking acidophilus as a nutritional supplement will help maintain the normal balance of beneficial bacteria in the intestines and vagina.

Here are a few other benefits:

• Production of enzymes such as proteases, which help digest proteins and lipases to digest fats
• Production of B vitamins, which are biocatalysts in food digestion, particularly folic acid and B12
• Improves digestion of food
• Production of the natural antibiotic Acidophilin which has been patented, and Bulgarian has been produced from L. bilgaricus
• Certain yoghurt cultures (L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus) appear to possess great potential as anticarcinogenic and anti-tumor properties
• Help in the alienation of lactose intolerance caused by the deficiency of the enzyme lactase. Such l. acidophilus cultures produce significant quantities of lactase more fully and thereby reduce the possibility of bad breath, bloating, gas formation and stomach cramps
• L. Acidophilus, may help reduce the occurrence of diarrhea and urinary and vaginal infections.
• L. acidophilus helps enhance calcium metabolism and thus may be related to their hypocholesteremic and anti-carcinogenic effect.
• May helps reduce serum-cholesterol levels
• May helps alleviate dermatitis and other skin disorders by modifying and improving gastrointestinal microbial balance
• Aids in the production and/or augments immune anti-bodies and their functions
  
  
  Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and is not meant to diagnose or treat illness. These recommendations are for supporting the body nutritionally, to help it normalize itself regardless of any disease that may or may not be present. Consult a licensed physician for the diagnosis or treatment of any ailment or disease.
  
  For more information on nutritional planning or complete nutritional assessments contact:
  CJM LeBlanc HealthWorks, Centreville Mall, 121-342 Main Street, Shediac, N.B. E4P 2E7, tel: (506)533-8885, fax: 532-8644, e-mail: charlotteleb@rogers.com, web site: www.wellness-healthworks.com