Acidophilus milk - milk enriched with acidophilic lactic acid bacteria, which changes its texture, taste and properties. This product is believed to help improve digestion and is anti-allergenic.
Production and storage of acidophilic milk
Acidophilus milk is made from ordinary pasteurized milk by adding special lactic acid bacteria to it: acidophilus bacillus, lactic acid streptococcus and kefir fungi. This procedure resembles the usual fermentation, which takes place within 12 hours at a temperature not lower than 32 ° C. Under these conditions, acidophilic bacteria consume a small amount of lactose in milk. As a result, the product becomes thicker and its taste becomes sour.
The nutritional value of acidophilus milk is practically the same as usual. It contains the same amount of calcium and protein, but the calorie content is slightly higher.
Store acidophilus milk, like other dairy products, in a cool environment, such as a refrigerator. Typically, homemade acidophilus milk has a shelf life of up to a week, while store-bought milk has a longer shelf life. The active bacteria included in its composition can continue to multiply from the moment such a product is made, therefore, in no case should it be consumed after the expiration date. Also, the milk should be discarded if its color or smell changes.
Useful properties of acidophilic milk
Scientists have confirmed that acidophilus milk is absorbed by the body much better than ordinary milk. The secret lies in the ability of the acidophilus bacillus to ferment part of the lactose in milk. That is why this product is often used in dietary, medical and baby food.
In addition, acidophilus bacillus, when it enters the human body, releases special antibiotics that effectively fight a wide range of bacteria, including staphylococci. It suppresses the processes of putrefaction in the body and, unlike the Bulgarian bacillus, stimulates the secretion of the pancreas and stomach. Acidophilic milk is recommended to drink to improve digestion, metabolic processes in the body and restore natural immunity.
In the first days after its consumption, a person may experience a feeling of discomfort, which is explained by a change in the balance of bacteria in the digestive system. This usually goes away after a couple of days.
Acidophilus milk is also believed to help reduce the likelihood of developing various types of allergies. It is for this reason that it is recommended to be given to children who have reached the age when they can already drink cow's milk. In addition, this product lowers blood cholesterol levels.
