Acidophilus vs. Probiotics — What's the Difference?

Acidophilus, often referred to as Lactobacillus acidophilus, is a type of bacteria that plays a vital role in digestive health, predominantly residing in the intestines. Probiotics, on the other hand, encompass a broad range of live bacteria and yeasts, not confined to a single type, which are recognized for conferring myriad health benefits to the host, predominantly in the realm of digestive health but extending beyond as well.

The inclusion of Acidophilus in dietary supplements and fermented foods stems from its positive impact on gut health, often being utilized to prevent or ameliorate digestive disturbances. Contrastingly, Probiotics offer a more extensive array, delivering a variety of microorganisms, each with its unique attributes and potentials, utilized in managing health in a broader sense, including but not limited to digestive wellness, immune function, and even mental health in some instances.

Distinguishing between Acidophilus and Probiotics is vital due to their different spectrums of application: while Acidophilus is specific and has targeted applications, particularly in preventing and managing antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Probiotics encapsulate a wide range of microbial entities, which may serve diverse and multifaceted purposes in health management, depending on the specific strains and species included.

Moreover, Acidophilus primarily belongs to the Lactobacillus genus and is widely recognized for its role in fermenting lactose and other sugars into lactic acid, contributing to the characteristic tang of fermented foods and inhibiting pathogenic microbial growth. Conversely, Probiotics might derive from various bacterial genera including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces, and more, each contributing distinctively to health and wellness through different mechanistic pathways.

Acidophilus, as a targeted bacterial strain, might be selected for specific health concerns or formulations given its known attributes and benefits. In comparison, Probiotics provide a broader and potentially more versatile approach to managing health, by offering a combination of various bacteria and yeasts, potentially delivering synergistic benefits and addressing a more comprehensive array of health concerns.