Many people have heard lactobacillus sporogenes referred to as "probiotics" or "good bacteria." Lactobacillus is a type of microorganism that humans eat and are exposed to on a daily basis. Without lactobacillus, many types of foods wouldn't exist; also, studies have shown that lactobacillus plays an important role in keeping humans healthy. Learn about lactobacillus and its many health-related uses.
Identification
Lactobacillus sporogenes are microorganisms that live in an acidic environment. They provide important nutrients such as vitamin K and lactase, a type of enzyme. They also produce anti-microbial substances such as acidolin, lactocidin, bacteriocin and acidophilus that help our bodies fight diseases. Lactobacilli are beneficial bacteria that can typically be found in the human mouth, vagina and small intestine, as well as on the surface of many plants.
Food Production
Lactobacilli are crucial in the production and fermentation of certain types of dairy products and other foods. Fermentation is a process that has been used for years to preserve food. In the production of cheese, for example, lactobacilli bacteria break down the lactose (the main sugar) in milk, leaving behind lactic acid. Lactic acid is what ferments the milk, creating cheese. This process is also used in the production of yogurt, saurkraut and cured meats.
Medical
Lactobacillus bacteria has many medical uses as well. When this bacteria is used for medical purposes, they are referred to as "probiotics." Probiotics are found in many types of popular yogurts, which can help regulate the digestive system. Also, according to the Mayo Clinic, lactobacillus acidophilus vaginal suppositories have been used as a successful treatment for bacterial vaginosis.
Dosing
Lactobacillus can be taken in many different forms: supplement pills, yogurts, drinks and suppositories. Adults who are 18 years of age and older are recommended to take at least one to 10 billion live lactobacilli a day. Popular probiotic yogurts typically contain around one million live lactobacilli. If more lactobacilli are consumed than the recommended dosage, mild stomach aches may occur. In children under the age of 18, certain antibiotics can destroy important bacteria that help in digestion. A quarter of a teaspoon of any store-bought probiotic yogurt is the recommended dosage for children to promote digestive health.
Side Effects
When taken in the proper dosage, lactobacillus acidophilus yields very few negative side effects. Two of the most common side effects that eventually go away are mild stomach aches and gas. Some people who are lactose intolerant or have lactose allergies may feel discomfort after eating dairy products that have lactobacillus acidophilus in them. In some studies, according to the Mayo Clinic, women who have used lactobacillus suppositories complained of vaginal burning. Also, people who have weakened immune systems are advised against ingesting lactobacilli, since serious infections can occur.
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