You have probably noticed that a lot of foods promote the amount of probiotics that they contain, but the question is, what are probiotics? There are many claims out there about what probiotics can do for you. They are bacteria that improves your gut health, yes, there are good bacteria out there. Your gut health is a large part of your overall health, so, yes probiotics are good for you. Now, can they do everything that people claim they can do? Probably not.
You should have a diet that includes probiotics and fiber to help with your gut health. If you have heard about probiotics, you have probably also heard about probiotic supplements. You should skip those and stick with foods that are high in probiotics. These supplements are not yet regulated by the FDA, so there is no guarantee that they contain all the things that they claim. Here are a few foods that you can eat to help up your probiotic intake, instead of taking supplements.
Kimchi
Kimchi is a fermented food that is very popular in Korean culture. It is made from salted and fermented vegetables. These vegetables include cabbages and radishes. It is usually seasoned with chili powder, garlic, and ginger. It can have health benefits like regulating certain bacteria in your gut and it can relieve stomach troubles. Stomach troubles like diarrhea and constipation can be cured by eating kimchi. It has also been known to help boost your immune system. Kimchi also has vitamin C and fiber in it.
Yogurt
Yogurt is probably one of the best known foods for probiotics, think Jane Lynch. Yogurt has live and active cultures that can help your gut health. It has lactobacillus bulgaricus which promotes the production of lactic acid. Lactic acid helps to keep bad bacteria out of your gut. Try eating Greek yogurt as it has more protein than other yogurts and contains less sugar and sodium.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is actually very good for you. Sauerkraut is made when lactic acid ferments. When this happens in your gut, it is even healthier than before because it is difficult for bad bacteria to live in this environment. Sauerkraut is also low calorie and is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. It also contains iron and fiber. It may not be very healthy when a hot dog is added to it, but eaten with a lean protein, you can get all the benefits that it provides.
Pickles
Pickles are better for your gut health than you think. Pickles provide probiotics, but they also are low in fat and calories. They are high in fiber and vitamin K and vitamin A. You should still eat pickles in moderation though. They are very high in sodium as a result of the pickling process. So, yes, take that pickle off of your friend’s plate, but be ready for the consequences, and I’m not talking health consequences.
Kombucha
This is a sour and fizzy tea. It has a large amount of probiotics in it. It also contains vitamin B, which can help your immune system. Drinking kombucha can also help to lower your risk of heart disease. The only downfall of kombucha is that it is made with a lot of sugar. As long as you are mindful of this, it is a good drink to add to your diet.
Tempeh
This food is made from fermented soybeans. These soybeans are formed into a patty to eat. Tempeh contains a lot of health benefits. It is high in protein, which helps to repair muscles and keep them strong. Protein can also help you stay fuller for longer. It has been suggested that Tempeh can also help to reduce your cholesterol. If you have high cholesterol, tempeh may be a good food to add to your diet. It is also a good substitute for meat products. If you are looking to eat less meat, try tempeh patties.
Miso
Miso is also made from fermented soybeans. It is used as an ingredient in miso soup, duh. It is a soy based food that is a good substitute for meat products. It is also full of antioxidant minerals. These minerals include copper, zinc, and manganese. It contains phytonutrients. Phytonutrients have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Miso can also help to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Kefir
KefirKefir is a fermented milk. It is a good source of calcium and proteins. It is a very good source of probiotics. It is also a type of food that helps to fill you up and prevent cravings. Since it sits in your gut for a little bit, you will be less likely to crave your favorite snacks throughout the day.
Natto
This is a popular Japanese dish that has fermented soybeans, seeing a pattern here? Natto contains probiotics that are very powerful and good for your gut health. It can also help to boost your immune system and support your heart health. Natto also contains vitamin K. It has anti-inflammatory enzymes and has shown results when tested for preventing blood clots.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This version of vinegar is great for controlling your blood pressure. It can also help to control your cholesterol, prevent diabetes, and help with weight loss. This is a good daily addition to your diet plan. It even has a large amount of probiotics. You can either drink a small amount daily, or use it as a dressing.
Kvass
This beverage is often found in Eastern Europe. It is made of fermented rye or barley, but it has also been made with beets, fruits, and root vegetables. Kvass has probiotics that help to clean your blood and liver. By this I mean it helps to push out the bad so the good can stay. It is mildly sour, but it is a good addition to your diet.
Talk to your doctor about what a probiotic rich diet can do for you.
