Acidophilus is the shortened name for the bacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus, a type of "friendly" or beneficial bacteria that normally live in the intestine.

When you take an antibiotic, the "friendly" bacteria are often eliminated, along with the bacteria that cause the infection.  This may lead to diarrhea, excess gas, and vaginitis.

Deficiencies of Acidophilus have been associated with health problems such as food allergies, constipation, irritable bowel, Candidiasis and several types of vaginitis. Lactobacillus Bifidus may be useful in the treatment of  cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis.  L. Bifidus also aids in the synthesis of B vitamins.

Supplementation with Acidophilus may also reduce blood cholesterol, aid in digestion, reduce levels of Candida and other fungi, and enhance in the absorption of nutrients.