You’ve heard the term “probiotic” being thrown around a few times, and you may not know that it exactly is. Well, if antibiotics get rid of bacteria, probiotics put bacteria inside of you. But wait, you say, isn’t that a bad thing? Not necessarily. Your digestive system has plenty of bacteria inside it that breaks down foods and promotes healthy digestion. If you’re lacking in probiotics, the nutrition may not assimilate to your body fully. That said, how do you go about making sure your digestive system is well-regulated? There are plenty of foods out there that are both nutrition and contain natural probiotics.
These include:
Kimchi
This is a fermented cabbage dish from the Korean style of eating. Recently, it’s been popular in America, so it couldn’t be a better time to try it. Besides being low in calories and high in probiotics and nutrients, it’s great when served with meat. There are plenty of ways to make it, so look it up and make your own.
Sauerkraut
Another fermented cabbage food, this is best known as the stuff you put on your hot dog. As a solo dish, however, it has many other benefits than just that. Sauerkraut is loaded with probiotics and can even help with some types of cancer.
Kombucha
This is a bubbly tea that is loaded with good bacteria and is best served chilled. It’s available in many different flavors and is a great substitute if you drink too much soda. Despite the fact that it may have a texture that turns people off, it’s an excellent drink once you get used to it.
Kefir
This is a fermented milk drink that’s great for those who don’t like to consume milk. It’s loaded with probiotics and nutrients, and the protein is broken down so that it’s easy to absorb.
Pickles
Here’s another common food that you didn’t know provided lots of probiotics. This classic snack contains plenty of probiotics and even combats anti-nutrients, which tend to prevent you from absorbing minerals. It’s a great snack that will make you and your body happy.
Dark Chocolate
For those who want something sweeter, they can indulge in some dark chocolate. The bitter yet sweet demeanor of dark chocolate provides many health benefits, including plenty of probiotics to help you out. However, note that many of the conventional chocolate bars are processed and may not have the same probiotic oomph as raw dark chocolate does. Look for raw dark chocolate that contains around 70% cacao for the full effect.
Soymilk
Soybeans contain plenty of probiotics. Aside from being a great alternative to conventional milk for those who are lactose intolerant or choose to be vegan, soymilk contains nutritional benefits as well. Look for soymilk that claims to promote probiotics for the best effect.
Miso Soup
Miso is delicious concoction made from tofu, fermented rye and various other ingredients. A great Japanese delicacy, it’s filled with probiotics that will make your digestion happy.
Tempeh
Tempeh is a delicious food made from soybeans, typically found in bread-like form. Aside from this, tempeh contains plenty of nutrients and is loaded with probiotics. For those who love soybeans but have high blood pressure tempeh tends to be low-sodium so you don’t have to worry on that front.
Yogurt
Another delicious dessert that has lots of health benefits, yogurt is perhaps one of the best known on here for being rich in probiotics. However, you must make sure that you’re getting the right yogurt. If the yogurt says that it promotes “live and active cultures,” or something to that effect, then it’s guaranteed that it’s filled with probiotics.
Sourdough Bread
If you’re craving more grains, then this is the way to go. Sourdough bread contains lactobacilli, a probiotic that can help with digestion. So the next time you’re debating between white or wheat bread, why not try a third option and make your sandwiches with sourdough bread. It’s not only tasty, but it can benefit your digestion.
Poi
This one is a little controversial, as it is next to impossible to produce in masses due to sanitation issues. However, this Hawaiian dish contains more live and active cultures than even yogurt. It’s made from mashed taro plant, which turns into a doughy consistency in return. If you visit Hawaii, or know a place that serves Hawaiian cuisine, poi is for you.
Overall, many foods can improve your digestion for the better. Having a healthy digestion can benefit you in so many ways, including better nutrient absorption and less trouble with stomach pains. So remember that not all bacteria is harmful. Some work in harmony with your body to give your functions the boost that it needs. So feel free to consume plenty of probiotic foods and reap their benefits.
Read my article on the benefits of organic food for more hints and tips for a healthier you.