Overview
Acidophilus supplements, commonly called probiotics, are central to a healthy immune system, particularly during pregnancy when immunity is compromised. Acidophilus supplements work by increasing the amount of good bacteria in the gut. Naturally the good bacteria trump the bad bacteria, relieving a variety of pregnancy-related maladies. Pregnant women should discuss plans to take acidophilus supplements with a doctor or midwife before first.
History
Russian microbiologist Elie Metchnikoff is a pioneer of immunology. Often referred to as the “Father of natural immunity,” Metchnikoff won a Nobel Prize in 1908 for his discovery that acidophilus fights infection and inflammation and boosts overall immunity. He started his research on starfish but his findings eventually held true for humans as well. He spent the rest of his life crusading for the consumption of acidophilus as a means for increasing human longevity.
Usage
Although acidophilus is found in fermented products such as yogurt and kefir, pregnant women are advised to take a supplement that provides at least one billion active cultures. “I think yogurt in general is great, but most yogurt doesn’t give you an amount of active bacteria. You don’t know how much you’ll end up with,” says pharmacist and author Sherry Torkos. Acidophilus supplements are available without a prescription in pill, powder or liquid form and may be taken daily.
Warning
Not all acidophilus supplements are created equal. Because acidophilus is a living culture, it must be refrigerated and kept away from light, moisture and air. This holds true from the beginning, through manufacture and transport—not just at the pharmacy or natural grocer. Also, many acidophilus supplements are derived from dairy, so if a pregnant woman has a dairy sensitivity, she should look carefully for a brand derived from other sources.
Benefits
According to Pregnancy Today, not only do probiotics boost immunity, they improve digestion, treat urinary tract and yeast infections and help manage eczema— all maladies that increase with pregnancy. There are also theories that because it takes energy to digest food, energy levels will increase with acidophilus supplementation. Acidophilus is also possibly linked to relief from acne.
Considerations
Acidophilus supplements are not a cure-all. If a pregnant woman decides to take acidophilus supplements and her symptoms do not improve, a visit to the doctor or midwife is a necessity in order to rule out a serious condition.
About this Author
Jordan Bucher is a doula who has also been writing since 1998. She swam on an NCAA All-American team in college and continues to place highly in races as a runner. She is passionate about health, fitness, pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. and She holds an Bachelor of Arts in English from Carleton College and a certificate from The University of Denver Publishing Institute.
