One type of bacteria that is attracted to acid is the Lactobacillus acidophilus. It has a lot of important functions in the human body and because of this it is termed the friendly bacteria. Acidophilus is found naturally in the vagina and the intestines and its job is to protect the body from organisms that can cause harm. Apart from this natural source it is also found in yogurt of different types, in carrots, bananas, garlic, soybeans, rice starch and garbanzo beans. They can also be bought in pill, capsule, tablet, powder or liquid form at any health store. They may come in conjunction with bifid bacteria, vitamin C and other nutrients which are also very beneficial to the body. Acidophilus works best when ingested one hour before meals on an empty stomach.
 
In the digestive tract, acidophilus breaks down food to produce hydrogen peroxide and Lactic acid along with other bi-products. These create an unpleasant environment for harmful organisms. Basically, acidophilus uses up the nutrients that other unwelcome micro organisms need which kills them as they do not get nutrients for survival. It also aids the production of niacin, folic acid and pyridoxine during the process of digestion and does the job of separating the bile acids from the amino acids. Amino acids are then reused by the body. There is a thought that says that because of this feature acidophilus helps prevent the harmful effects of alcohol, drugs and stress and aging.  Generally, yeast infections come up due to a prolonged course of antibiotics or any rash that does not go away.  

Yeast infections in women cause a thick odorless white discharge and can cause itching, burning, redness and irritation of the vulva. There could be pain during sexual intercourse and urination. Acidophilus is seen to be a good remedy for this type of infection, which is caused by the growth of Candida. It is the direct cause of thrush in the mouth, esophagus and vagina and can lead to white patches. This yeast infection can also cause diaper rash in babies. It comes up as red, raised and patchy. A direct application of the acidophilus powder made into a paste with a little water will help clear up the condition. A bottle fed baby can be dosed with one teaspoon of the powder once a day.  

It is said that eating yogurt works very well for curing vaginal infection. There is also a noticeable reduction in the recurrence of the infection. Acidophilus also boosts the immune system and helps the gastrointestinal system to function properly. There have been reports of relief from urinary tract infection, indigestion and diarrhea, acne and bad breath. The Oklahoma State University research showed that acidophilus may help in reducing the serum cholesterol levels in the body and the University of Kentucky says that the risk of a coronary heart disease can be reduced by reducing serum cholesterol.

But one needs to know that contraceptive creams of some types and oral antibiotics can kill the acidophilus and those who have to take an extensive course are advised to have more of acidophilus to maintain the supply in the intestines.