The Role of Lactobacillus in Good Digestion

Lactobacillus is a genus of bacteria, considered to be a major part of the lactic acid bacteria group. The name Lactobacillus resembles its function of converting lactose and other sugars into lactic acid. They appear commonly throughout the gastrointestinal tract, mouth and vagina, and are considered harmless and beneficial. Lactobacillus has a number of interesting uses. Some species are used industrially, in the production of a number of consumer products. Lactobacillus is used in the fermenting process of many types of cheese, yogurt, pickles, beer, wine and a number of other foods. Each particular species of lactobacillus is generally used in the production of only one of these products. However the Lactobacillus genus is more commonly used medically, consumed in foods or as a dietary supplement in capsule form.

Lactobacillus in Probiotics

Some of the Lactobacillus species have a number of health benefits to numerous parts of the body, and are therefore commonly integrated with probiotic supplements. Lactobacillus has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer potential, as well as many other incredible medical benefits. An example of a significant species is the Lactobacillus acidophilus, which is considered a probiotic. The Lactobacillus acidophilus breaks down lactose in foods and produces lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide and many other by-products that create a harsh environment for bad bacteria. Additionally, it competes for food that many of these bad bacteria depend on, therefore restricting outbreaks.

Similar to other probiotics, Lactobacillus increases the health of the gastrointestinal tract and boosts the immune system. They also aid in fighting Yeast infections (Candida outbreak for example), and offset adverse effects of antibiotics such as diarrhoea. Lactobacillus in probiotics can help to treat and prevent allergies, cardiovascular diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance and cholesterol and blood pressure problems. Being a relatively new product on the medical market, probiotics is not yet widely used. However as research discovers the benefits of supplementing bacteria such as lactobacillus, it will become regularly used in the treating and preventing of a range of infections and diseases. Although it is capable of all this, probiotics is most notable for its impact on our general health. It helps to sustain a greater well-being, which can in turn affect how long we live, how healthy we feel and our quality of life.

Summary

In short, Lactobacillus is a 'good bacteria' commonly found in the intestinal tract which aids digestion and the efficient absorbtion of nutrients.  Antibiotics destroys good bacteria and can lead to gastrointestinal disorders.  Probiotics supplements to the diet replace good bacteria which are destroyed by antibiotics and restores the digestive system to balance.  

Lactobacillus Resources

Lactobacillus defined on Wikipedia

Lactobacillus Bacteria on Brittannica

Lactobacillus Acidophilus at Mayo Clinic