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Acidophilus |
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| Louis Pasteur discovered pasteurization, the method of heating milk to kill harmful bacteria. Years later at the pasteurization institute, Elie Metchnikoff researched and discovered the health-promoting capabilities of lactobacillus bacteria when he observed that people who ate yogurt tended to live longer. More
than 400 different kinds of bacteria live in our gastrointestinal
tract. The body depends on beneficial bacteria to manufacture B vitamins
as well as to produce lactase and other antibacterial substances. Commercial food processing procedures often destroy viable beneficial organisms, making it difficult for the body to maintain good intestinal flora. Even the majority of yogurt products no longer contain a viable acidophilus culture. Preservatives, additives, high-fat diets, alcohol, birth control pills, and stress can all result in poor intestinal flora. Antibiotic drugs are especially damaging to intestinal flora and kill all kinds of bacteria, both good and bad. The effects of antibiotic use on intestinal flora can last for weeks even after the drug is discontinued; often leading to yeast overgrowth, chronic infections, poor digestion, fatigue or allergies. Acidophilus supplements can reintroduce beneficial bacteria into the system. Important benefits of acidophilus supplementation can include:
Sources: Stay Healthy With Nutrition, Elson M. Haas, M.D., Celestial Arts Publishing 1992. Nutrition Science News, Anthony Cichoke, D.C. August, 1997 Intestinal Bacteria and Health, T. Mitsuaka, Harcourt Brace, 1978 Annals of Internal Medicine, H.D. Hilton and P. Isenberg, 1992 Disclaimer: The above information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Infomation on this site is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for the prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have and/or suspect you might have a health problem, are pregnant and/or nursing. |
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