The most prominent lactic bacteria in the small intestine are lactobacilli. In the large intestine, bifidobacteria predominate. The scientific study of lactic acid bacteria began around the turn of the century. It was mainly Elie Metchnikoff of the Pasteur Institute who first aroused interest in this field. He developed the theory that intestinal lactic microflora have major antiputrefactive functions and play a role in the aging process and mortality.
Many factors can modify the desirable harmony of intestinal microflora .
These factors favor the proliferation of putrefactive infectious microorganisms at the expense of desirable microflora and are consequently associated with such conditions as chronic constipation, diarrhea and poor digestion. It is now well-documented that many lactic bacteria species are essential or desirable for good health. Accelerate bowel movements and promote regularity. Lactobacillus acidophilus R0052 has remarkable efficacy for treating gastrointestinal dyspepsia . One published report on a study of 30 patients who took L acidophilus R0052 daily after breakfast for two weeks noted how well it worked to resolve most symptoms of dyspepsia in the group.