Probiotics are a healthy bacteria that live in the lining of our gut and help to play a role in our overall health. Probiotics are “good” bacteria which helps to keep a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut, specifically the lining that includes the microbiome.
A healthy gut microbiome aids digestion, boosts the immune system, helps keep sugar levels healthy, and may even influence mood and mental health.
Where are they found?
Bacteria Fermented foods are considered good sources of probiotics. Those are:
- Active-culture yogurts – Why not try a plant based option?
- Cheese (dairy may do more harm than good, though)
- Kefir
- Kimchi
- Kombucha
- Sauerkraut
If you don’t like any of these choices, they also come in pill form with a variety of different strains and formulations targeted for
various health benefits, such as gastrointestinal and women’s health.
Probiotics may aid people with different Gastrointestinal conditions, like Chrohns Disease, ulcerative colitis, IBS, or even for infections like C.diff. They can also be beneficial for vaginal health and even allergies. Probiotic supplementation may even benefit people with MS.
Talk to your health care provider before starting a probiotic. People with very weak immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, should not take probiotics due to risk of infection. Your health provider or a nutritionist can help identify a probiotic containing the bacteria strain based on the condition you wish to address.
Also eating a varied diet with lots of healthy fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, and healthy protein is good for our microbiome.
Go grow some good bacteria today!
References:
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/whats-the-deal-with-probiotics
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