Lipid Disorders and Acidophilus and Other Probiotics

Some studies suggest that "friendly" bacteria (probiotics) might be able to improve cholesterol profile. Prebiotics, substances that enhance the growth of friendly bacteria, way also be beneficial.

Probiotics help populate the gut with "good bacteria." These bacteria play a role in the break-down of bile and the removal of cholesterol, ultimately helping reduce the amount of cholesterol in your blood.

Read more details about Acidophilus and Other Probiotics.

Some but not all studies suggest that probiotics might be able to improve cholesterol profile.^{123-128,213,250} Prebiotics, substances that enhance the growth of friendly bacteria, have shown inconsistent benefit in studies as well.^214-221 One study found that any improvement, if it does occur, is short-lived.²⁶²

An 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 70 overweight people found that a probiotic treatment containing S. thermophilus and Enterococcus faecium could reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol by about 8%.⁴⁵ Similarly positive results were seen in other short-term trials of various probiotics.^{44,46,73,74,100-101} However, a 6-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found no long-term benefit.⁷² Researchers speculate that participants stopped using the product regularly toward the end of the study.

Probiotics

Cultured dairy products such as yogurt and kefir are good sources of acidophilus and other probiotic bacteria.

Probiotic supplements are also widely available in powder, liquid, capsule, or tablet form. Because probiotics are not drugs, but rather living organisms that you are trying to transplant to your digestive tract, it is necessary to take them regularly. Each time you do, you reinforce the beneficial bacterial colonies in your body, which may gradually push out harmful bacteria and yeasts growing there.

The downside of using a living organism is that probiotics may die on the shelf. Look for products that guarantee living organisms at the time of purchase, not just at the time of manufacture. Another approach is to eat acidophilus-rich foods such as yogurt and kefir, in which the bacteria are most likely still alive.

In addition to increasing your intake of probiotics, you can take fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) supplements that can promote thriving colonies of helpful bacteria in the digestive tract. (Fructo-oligosaccharides are carbohydrates found in fruit. Fructo means "fruit," and an oligosaccharide is a type of carbohydrate.) Taking FOS is like putting manure in a garden; it is thought to foster a healthy environment for the bacteria you want to have inside you. The typical daily dose of fructo-oligosaccharides is between 2 g and 8 g. Note: FOS can also nourish "bad bacteria," so it is probably best to re-balance your intestinal flora with "good bacteria" before introducing FOS.

Prebiotics (FOS and others)

In addition to being available in supplement form, often combined with probiotics, FOS and other prebiotics are found in asparagus, Jerusalem artichoke, leeks, onions, and soybeans, among other foods.

When taken simply for promoting healthy bacteria, FOS are often taken at a dose of 4-6 g daily. When used for therapeutic purposes, the typical dose of FOS is 10-20 g daily, divided into three doses and taken with meals. Side effects such as bloating, flatulence, and intestinal discomfort are common at a daily intake 15 g or more.

A number of health practitioners, including physicians, naturopathic doctors and nutritionists, might be knowledgeable about using probiotics to help improve your cholesterol levels.

Safety Issues

Probiotics may occasionally cause a temporary increase in digestive gas. But, beyond that, they do not present any known risks for most people. In one trial of 140 healthy infants, formula supplemented with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and probiotics appeared as safe as standard formula, and did not have any effect on infant growth by the end of the 7-month trial. ¹ However, individuals who are immunosuppressed could conceivably be at risk for developing a dangerous infection with the probiotic organism itself; at least one person taking immunosuppressive medications has died in this manner. ² In a detailed review of four studies, researchers concluded that the use probiotics did not benefit patients with severe acute pancreatitis. ³ Furthermore, according to one study, the use of probiotics led to an increased risk of mortality in patients with severe acute pancreatitis, and should, therefore, be avoided under these circumstances. ⁴

A Note About Prebiotics (FOS and others)

Some probiotic supplements also contain prebiotics like FOS to "feed" the good bacteria. FOS appear to be generally safe. However, they can cause bloating, flatulence, and intestinal discomfort, especially when taken at doses of 15 g or higher daily. People with lactose intolerance may particularly suffer from these side effects.

Interactions You Should Know About

• If you are taking antibiotics : It may be beneficial to take probiotic supplements at the same time, and to continue them for a couple of weeks after you have finished the course of drug treatment. This will help restore the balance of natural bacteria in your digestive tract.

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