Probiotics are the healthy bacteria that live in your digestive tract. A healthy level of these ‘good’ bacteria can improve digestion and may assist to alleviate the painful symptoms of common digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, they have many other benefits; including immune support. So how can you get more Probiotics into your diet?
Adding fermented foods to your diet is the best way to increase the good bacteria in our digestive system. Try these healthy foods containing probiotics to leave you feeling your best!
Yoghurt
One of the most popular ways to get probiotics is through yoghurt. In addition to its probiotic content, yoghurt also contains B12, protein, potassium, magnesium and calcium. Low sugar, unflavoured yoghurt such as greek or natural, combined with fresh fruit and some crunch like oats or seeds & nuts makes for the perfect high protein breakfast or snack.
Kefir
Kefir is another high-protein dairy product, traditionally made from cow, goat or sheep milk that has been inoculated with kefir grain (a type of yeast). It contains strains of natural probiotic bacteria. Kefir grains will also ferment coconut, soy and rice milk for a dairy-free alternative. It can come in a variety of flavours and makes a sweet addition to any breakfast.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a type of fermented tea, traditionally made from a probiotic fungus SCOBY (symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast). It has a distinctive taste and is rich in amino acids, antioxidants, trace minerals and probiotics. It can be flavoured with a variety of fruits, herbs and spices such as orange, lemon, vanilla or almond and is widely available in health food stores & supermarkets.
Sauerkraut & Kimchi
Sauerkraut & Kimchi are fermented foods mainly made up of pickled cabbage and other vegetables. Fermented foods like these can be easily added to your diet to up your intake of probiotics. In addition, these foods are high in Vitamins A & C and contain anti-inflammatory properties.
Try adding Sauerkraut or Kimchi to your next salad to up the nutritional benefit and give your digestive track some extra support.
