acidophilus

noun

ac·​i·​doph·​i·​lus ˌa-sə-ˈdä-f(ə-)ləs 

: a lactobacillus (Lactobacillus acidophilus) that is added especially to dairy products (such as yogurt and milk) or prepared as a dietary supplement, is part of the normal intestinal and vaginal flora, and is used therapeutically especially to promote intestinal health

also : a preparation containing such bacteria

Examples of acidophilus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In one study, people with IBS with moderate to severe pain who took Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM had less pain after 12 weeks.2 This strain of bacteria may work to reduce compounds that cause inflammation in the body. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 1 Jan. 2025

Each serving contains 10 billion CFUs, which is a combination of bacterial strains Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus acidophilus. —Dahlia Rimmon, Parents, 24 June 2024

Lactobacillus acidophilus may help lower total and LDL cholesterol and reduce diarrhea. —Sarah Anzlovar, Ms, Verywell Health, 23 Apr. 2024

The Probiotic acidophilus helps in milk and sugar digestion, promoting general good health of the digestive system. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 6 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin, "acidophilic," specific epithet of Lactobacillus acidophilus

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for acidophilus

• hemophilus

Medical Definition

acidophilus

noun

ac·​i·​doph·​i·​lus ˌas-ə-ˌdäf-(ə-)ləs 

: a lactobacillus (Lactobacillus acidophilus) that is added especially to dairy products (as yogurt and milk) or prepared as a dietary supplement, is part of the normal intestinal and vaginal flora, and is used therapeutically especially to promote intestinal health

also : a preparation containing such bacteria