Is this okay to do? - Alternative Medicine Message Board

Blue2U · 12-18-2002, 01:08 PM

Recently I began taking acidophilus recommended for healthy intestinal flora. I also began taking a B-complex.

Directions say: Acidophilus - take 2 tabs, Once per day after meal. However, other things I've read say to take twice a day on an empty stomache ...any advice on this?

Also, on the B-complex, directions: take 1 per day after mean ....does it matter if I take this at the same time as the acidophilus?

Thanks.

Marie55 · 01-11-2003, 06:42 PM

If Acidophilus does not bother your stomach, you can take it on an empty one. If it makes you queasy or anything then take after meals. The B-complex and acidophilus should be compatible to take at same time.

Marie

Farmer Sue Tickle · 01-14-2003, 02:06 PM

Acidophilus to be taken on an empty stomach has always intrigued me too, and it's not just recommended for those without stomach problems.

As I understand it, most supplements are suggested to be taken with foods because that's when the stomach acids are at their lowest (taken up digesting the food) and therefore they stand a better chance of getting through to be absorbed by the small intestine. I would have thought that would apply to the acidophilus, too.

I'm eagerly awaiting the answer, also!

Sarah68 · 01-14-2003, 04:22 PM

Although Acidophilus is a supplement - Probiotic supplement, what you have to remember that it is also a supplement of bacteria, such as lactobacillis and bifidus. It is recommended that they are taken on an empty stomach, so that the bacteria can re-colonate more quickly. If the stomach is empty, there is more chance of this happening, before it has to start working hard to digest the food. It also means that the bacteria are already there to help and get started when you do eat.

That is my thinking anyway. However, if you get an upset stomach from taking it on an empty stomach, then you can still take it after eating.

I have been taking Acidophilus twice daily for a long time on an empty stomach and have never had any problems yet.