Megan Odland is getting a prescription filled. As a medical student she understands the danger antibiotics can pose. "Everyone's concerned about the resistant bacteria that's arising and people's philosophy on prescribing antibiotics differs so much," says Odland.
"The antibiotic not only destroys the evil bacteria but it destroys the good bacteria," says Dr. Christopher Magiera of Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Doctor Magiera treats gastrointestinal patients. He says antibiotics can often leave patients open to other problems like yeast infections. But there's a way to put good bacteria back into the body. It's called Acidophilus.
"Acidophilus is something that I've prescribed more and more over the last ten years," says Dr. Magiera. It's the same natural bacteria that's used in unpasteurized yogurt. And doctors say it's very mild. "About the worst side effect I've ever seen with these is a little increased intestinal gas," says Dr. Magiera. And Acidophilus doesn't just help replace good bacteria. It can also help improve lactose absorbtion for those with an intolerance for products like milk.
You can find Acidophilus over the counter at any pharmacy or natural foods store. Doctors say Acidophilus is even safe for infants -- especially if you're giving your child antibiotics... it'll help replace beneficial bacteria.
Some brands of Acidophilus include:
-Bacid
-Culturelle
-Dofus
-Flora-Q
-Kala
-Lactinex
-Lacto-Key
-Lacto-Pectin
-Lacto-Triblend
-Megadophilus
-MoreDophilus
-Superdophilus