Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) is a little bacteria with a big name. It is found in plentiful quantities in all our Tibico Drinks generated by our unique anaerobic fermentation process and comes with equally big health benefits. Not only are there substantial benefits for children and adults, acidophilus is readily available in common foods that are easy to obtain or even make yourself, and carries minimal risk of side effects.

What Is Lactobacillus Acidophilus?

Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of a family of probiotics; that is, a bacteria which naturally occurs in the body. LA is also found in a number of fermented foods including yogurt, sauerkraut, and kefir, as well as in over-the-counter supplements.

You’ve probably heard of bacteria described as good or bad. So-called good bacteria are essential for your health, particularly for digestion and a robust immune response to pathogens. In fact, most bacteria are essential to life. While comparatively few kinds are harmful, the ones that are cause serious health conditions such as salmonella (food poisoning), e coli, and bacterial pneumonia among others.

Probiotics are the good kind of bacteria, and there is also evidence that lactobacillus acidophilus specifically can help prevent or treat a variety of common health conditions.

If you or someone you care about suffers from any of the following health issues, here’s how lactobacillus acidophilus may help ease or even prevent them.

1. Lower Your Risk Of Heart Disease By Reducing Cholesterol

When your cholesterol is 240 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or greater, you’re at significant risk for heart disease, which is the number one cause of death for both women and men.

Because high cholesterol is one of the primary risk factors for heart disease, it makes sense to use whatever means you can to reduce your level. Recent studies show that LA is effective at reducing total cholesterol as well as LDL (the “bad” kind). Although probiotics in general help, LA has been shown to be one the most beneficial of them.

2. Boost Your Immunity

When your immune system is deficient, you’re at risk for opportunistic diseases such as the Norwalk virus and pneumonia that you wouldn’t otherwise get.

Acidophilus has been shown to strengthen the immune system and support it to respond in a balanced and healthy way to pathogens in the body. By eating LA-rich food or taking supplements, you can help your immune system to protect you.