Bacteria. The thought of it can incite great fear in people, and rightfully so. Through history certain bacteria have been responsible for the death of millions of people. Think the Black Plague, think smallpox, think bad breath. They are all forms of bacteria that have entered into human history with great impact, and left us with wakes of shaking, foul smelling victims. It is a valid humanistic response to hate bacteria, to desire to sweep all types under the same rug and stomp them out until they are no longer a threat. It is ingrained in us to do so, but be careful, because not all bacteria are bad.

Acidophilus is one bacteria that falls into the ‘Good Bacteria’ box. We need it for healthy digestion, and while some of its counterparts –its cousins in the bacteria world­– are a threat to us, acidophilus is a great savior.

In a recent Health Journal article written for Bodyandfitness.com, acidophilus was said to “favorably alter the intestinal microflora balance, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, promote good digestion, boost immune function, and increase resistance to infection.” (Wow, that’s a lot of good health!)

Acidophilus is one in a group of bacteria essential to our health. Its genus, Lactobacillus, is a group of beneficial bacteria that help break down food in our intestinal tract and aid in the absorption of nutrients. Lactobacillus are similar to all other types of bacteria in the same way that all cars are similar to each other: they all have an engine, they are all made to carry people, and they all take gas. In our bodies there are good and bad bacteria, just like there are good and bad cars – there are some cars that we consider good cars, either because of less gas consumption or better handling, and there are some that can only be called lemons (bad brakes, gas-guzzlers, rust buckets)! The genus Lactobacillus is the Hybrid Ferrari of the bacteria world.

AstroNutrition offers acidophilus in supplement form, under the ‘Active Acidophilus’ moniker. It is called ‘active’ because, like the bacteria found in certain yogurts, it is sustained alive. The formula created by various acidophilus supplement manufacturers, like that of Organika, delivers the best possible option for introducing more ‘good’ bacteria into your diet. Diets rich in acidophilus can help maintain a healthy balance of all good bacteria to promote digestion, enhance immune function, and even relieve constipation.

For a look at some of the Acidophilus supplements offered by AstroNutrition, click here .