What is Probiotic Acidophilus?
Probiotic acidophilus, also known as Lactobacillus acidophilus or L. acidophilus, is a type of healthy bacteria that is found naturally in the intestinal tracts and the vagina. It shields the body from the growth of harmful bacteria.
Probiotic Acidophilus helps support a healthy digestive system by replacing friendly, or beneficial, bacteria that can be depleted by many stresses, such as changes in diet, source of drinking water, age or travel. These friendly bacteria, by producing lactic acid, maintain a healthy environment for the growth of normal bacteria.
Regular use of Probiotic Acidophilus has also been known to support immune system function. Probiotic Acidophilus also produces lactase, which is an enzyme that helps to digest milk and other dairy products.
What is Acidophilus?
Acidophilus is the general name used to group together similar bacteria that help in digestion. While many bacteria strains claim to be acidophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus) is the only true acidophilus strain. Many US manufacturers however, still use acidophilus more as a general name for mixtures of bacteria, one of which is Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Probiotic Acidophilus Supplements
Probiotic Acidophilus supplements are widely available in many forms. They can be purchased at health food stores, grocery stores, pharmacies and may be taken in powder or liquid form. They also come in tablets and capsules.
The best supplements should contain acidophilus probiotic in sufficient amounts. Information about how much acidophilus a product contains can be found in the supplement facts section for any probiotic supplement.
However, when it comes to probiotic supplements, quality is more important that quantity. That's why the makers of Sustenex®, chose not to pursue an acidophilus strain, but instead, a strain of Bacillus coagulans, specifically, Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 (BC30) due to its ability to survive stomach acids in order to reach the intestines - the intended target.
In brief, all probiotics must reach the intestines to have any health benefit. Bacillus coagulans naturally forms a protective shield that helps protect it from stomach acids. Many traditional probiotics, acidophilus strains included, are unable to form this protective shield, making them more vulnerable. Sustenex® with BC30 (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086) is one of the very few probiotic supplements containing a strain of Bacillus coagulans.
