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Acidophilus/Bifidus/FOS

Description

In an age where the human body is exposed to a variety of immune insults, from environmental toxins to endogenous parasites, it is important to remember the balance of friendly flora in the large intestine. A healthy balance supports immune function and decreases colony populations of harmful bacteria. FOS, molecules which attract bifidobacteria in the gut, is especially helpful when populations of flora have been decreased from antibiotic use.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

Beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, are called probiotics. A high-potency, probiotic combination is necessary to rebuild the "good bacteria" in the gastrointestinal tract. Probiotic supplementation can be used daily to maintain intestinal integrity, but is also beneficial in inhibiting the growth of bad bacteria, enhancing digestion, increasing resistance to infection or recolonizing the intestines after antibiotic use.

Clinical Applications/Research

Lactobacillus Acidophilus

The large intestine is the habitat for millions and millions of friendly flora (probiotics), such as lactobacillus acidophilus. This habitat is like a hotel, and if the rooms aren’t reserved for the good bacteria, the bad bacteria will take over and have a convention. People on antibiotics wipe out their good intestinal flora when they knock out the bad. This upsets the immune balance, and lets down defenses to invasion by viruses, bacteria, and candida. Candida can spread long mycelial arms right through the intestinal lining and perforate it, permitting wide-open entry to toxins and microorganisms like viruses. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria do not mutate against natural gut flora, but they do mutate against drugs. Increasing the population of good flora in the gut is a good way to build the immune system, and prevent strains of super-virulent microorganisms. Lactobacillus provides protection for the intestinal wall by enhancing immune defenses. Lactobacilli produce a variety of substances that inhibit bad bacteria and inhibit the production of toxins by pathogenic species. Lactobacillus acidophilus "has been found to inhibit Candida albicans" (Microbios, 1990; 62 (250): 37-46).

Bifidobacterium Bifidum

A number of pioneer bacteria, which are the first to arrive in the gut, are capable of effectively blocking growth of other bacteria introduced later in the ecosystem. In some instances, these pioneer bacteria also inhibit production of toxins by pathogenic species. These factors include “bifidus factors”, which promote the growth of bifidobacterium, lactoferrin and immunoglobulins, which prevent colonization of the gut by pathogenic enterobacteria” (Ann Pediatr Paris 1993;40(1):13-22).

FOS (Fructooligosaccharides)

FOS are naturally occurring carbohydrates that are not metabolized by the human body. FOS helps promote the growth of friendly bacteria, especially bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, while decreasing the amount of bad bacteria. FOS also increases butyrate production (short-chain fatty acids), enhances liver function and increases elimination of toxic substances. Jerusalem artichoke is a rich source of fructooligosaccharides (FOS). Onions, garlic and asparagus are also natural sources of FOS (Murray, M., Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements, Prima Publishing, Rocklin, CA, 1996, p. 362). Bifidobacterium, in the presence of FOS, is the primary source of biotin production in infants.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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