Lactobacillus acidophilus
Probiotic
Also known as: Acidophilus, Bacillus acidophilus, L. acidophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, NCFM strain
A
Grade A💊 1-10 billion CFU daily🎯 4 primary uses🔗 2 synergies⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upNutrition+50 pts
Overview
Foundational probiotic strain for vaginal and gut health. One of the most studied probiotic species.
Primary Uses
Gut healthVaginal healthImmune supportLactose digestion
Frequently Asked About Lactobacillus acidophilus
How much Lactobacillus acidophilus should I take?
The typical effective range is 1-10 billion CFU daily. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Lactobacillus acidophilus?
Any time. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Lactobacillus acidophilus with food?
Can take either way.
Does Lactobacillus acidophilus interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Antibiotics kill it - separate. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Lactobacillus acidophilus.
What does Lactobacillus acidophilus pair well with?
Lactobacillus acidophilus stacks well with Prebiotics and Other Lactobacillus strains — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Lactobacillus acidophilus?
Lactobacillus acidophilus should be avoided or used with caution by people with Severe immunocompromise. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus?
Most people tolerate Lactobacillus acidophilus well. The most commonly reported side effects are Gas initially. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
1-10 billion CFU daily
Timing
Any time
With food
Can take either way
Duration
Safe long-term
Special Populations
Women's health, antibiotic recovery
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Lactobacillus acidophilusyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Search Lactobacillus acidophilus research
Mechanism of Action
- • Produces lactic acid
- • Inhibits pathogens
- • Supports gut barrier
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade A
Well-studied probiotic strain
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Rare sepsis in immunocompromised
Contraindications
- • Severe immunocompromise
Common Side Effects
- • Gas initially
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Consult healthcare provider
Liver & Kidney Notes
Safe
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Antibiotics kill it - separate
🧪 Supplements
- • Works with prebiotics
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • Alcohol may reduce viability
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Prebiotics ↗Other Lactobacillus strains
Avoid Combining With
Antibiotics at same time
Best Goal Synergies
Gut healthVaginal health
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • CFU guaranteed through expiration
Standardization Markers
CFU countStrain specified
Adulteration risk
Moderate
Practical Notes
- • Foundational strain
- • Look for specific strain ID
Tags
probioticgut healthwomen's health
Top Products with Lactobacillus acidophilus
Highest-scored catalog products containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, ranked by our scoring engine.
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Related Guides
In-depth guides covering Lactobacillus acidophilus — protocols, comparisons, and use cases.
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Bifidobacterium lactis
Hardy probiotic strain with strong immune-enhancing effects. Survives transit well and supports regularity.
Bifidobacterium longum
Dominant infant gut bacteria that supports immune function and may reduce anxiety. Important throughout life.
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A well-researched probiotic strain supporting digestive health, immune function, and overall gut microbiome balance.
Lactobacillus plantarum
Versatile probiotic with gut barrier support and anti-inflammatory effects. Found in fermented vegetables.
Last reviewed: September 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, September). Lactobacillus acidophilus — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/lactobacillus-acidophilus
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.