Acidophilus Side Effects

Acidophilus is an acid loving bacteria that lives best in acidic conditions. These bacteria are also known as ‘micro flora’ or ‘probiotics’. Acidophilus are friendly bacteria and reside in our intestines. Acidophilus supplements are recommended by many medical practitioners to patients who are undergoing antibiotic treatment. During antibiotic therapy, the natural micro flora of the intestine is disturbed, suppressing the beneficial bacteria and triggering the growth of yeast. This is where acidophilus supplements come handy. Acidophilus helps boost immunity and helps in the production of niacin, folic acid, and vitamin B. However, many people may experience mild side effects of acidophilus. Although, the side effects are not so severe and usually subside gradually within a day or two, it can be a source of discomfort. Nevertheless, people who are already allergic to acidophilus, have a weak immune system, or have just suffered from serious illnesses, may have more serious side effects. To learn more about acidophilus side effects, read on.

• The most common side effect of acidophilus is abdominal discomfort. Many people who take acidophilus supplements complain of mild abdominal pain that may last for a short period.
• People who are taking acidophilus supplements for a considerable time, may also experience bloating and flatulence. Although it is a minor problem that in most cases gets resolved without any medical intervention, it is often a cause of uneasiness in many people. Abdominal distress occurs mostly in the first two days after one begins taking acidophilus supplements.
• Many people also complain of having flu like symptoms including fever and nausea after they have started taking acidophilus supplements.
• Diarrhea is also common side effect of acidophilus.
• If you are allergic to acidophilus, you may notice some serious side effects after taking acidophilus probiotic supplements. Allergic reactions include feeling dizzy, skin complaints, rashes and hives, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the lips, throat, face, and/or tongue. People who have weak immune systems may develop severe acidophilus side effects.
• Although the benefits of acidophilus supplements are enormous, some people may suffer from infection of the heart valves after having acidophilus treatment, if they have artificial heart valves.
• Acidophilus can produce gases like hydrogen and methane in the intestinal tract which in turn can be a considerable source of pain.
• Acidophilus may also slow down the growth of other useful bacteria that can absorb the gases thus giving rise to uneasiness. Although the side effect subsides within a day or two naturally, people who experience prolonged symptoms should consult their physicians before discontinuing the supplement.
• You should also consult your physician in case you want some over-the-counter medications to help alleviate the side effects of acidophilus supplements.
• Acidophilus can kill other bacteria and release some toxins. This is called ‘herx reaction’ and people who experience a sudden rise in the toxin levels may feel lightheaded and under the weather for a short period of time.