Home		View our 'Article Archive' Probiotics: The Key to Your Health     The flora in a healthy colon should consist of at least 85 percent lactobacilli and 15 percent coliform bacteria, but the typical colon bacteria count is the reverse. This lack of lactobacilli can cause or be a factor in: • gas and bloating • allergies • inflammation • fatigue and/or headaches • constipation • candida overgrowth • toxicity • eczema     Acidophilus, a type of friendly bacteria, may help to detoxify harmful substances. Acidophilus has antifungal properties and helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels, aid digestion and enhance the absorption of nutrients. There are many good acidophilus supplements available in tablet, capsule or powdered forms. Take acidophilus on an empty stomach in the morning and one hour before each meal.     A recent study from Finland, reported in the Lancet, demonstrated the importance of using an acidophilus supplement in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, to diminish the risk of eczema. Infants using acidophilus had only half the eczema of the control infants.     Acidophilus is particularly important to take after you have been on an antibiotic, as these destroy both the good and bad bacteria in your body. Taking acidopilus can help replenish the missing good bacteria.