Nowadays, almost everyone is aware of the health benefits of probiotics. However, due to the proliferation of different brands worldwide, determining which probiotics supplement is best for you can be difficult. Probiotic supplements are available in various forms, including liquid, capsules, tablets, and powder. So, what probiotics are recommended for a healthy lifestyle?
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microbes meant to have health benefits when consumed or applied to the skin. They can be present in dietary multivitamins, cosmetics, fermented foods, and yogurt. People may believe that bacteria and microbes are harmful germs, but some of them can help. Some bacteria, for example, aid in the destruction of disease-causing cells, the acceleration of food digestion, and the production of vitamins. Many probiotic supplements contain microbes similar to those found naturally in our bodies. Below are 6 recommended probiotics for a healthy lifestyle and their features.
Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics because it contains beneficial microorganisms to help gut health. It is made from fresh milk or cream. It is frequently pasteurized before being fermented with various live bacteria cultures and stored at a specific temperature to promote bacterial growth. The culture ferments lactose, a natural sugar found in milk. It causes the production of lactase, which gives yogurt its distinct flavor. Yogurt contains active probiotic living microbes that can help keep the intestines healthy, bone health, and digestion systems. However, not all yogurts contain active probiotics, particularly yogurt that passes through heat during manufacturing. Choose yogurt with active or living cultures at all times.
Kefir
Kefir is a popular probiotic beverage that contains bacteria. These microorganisms have the potential to improve health in a variety of ways, including digestion, weight management, and mental wellness. Kefir is a cultured dairy drink made primarily from cow’s or goat’s milk. It is created by combining milk and kefir grains. These grains are not cereal grains but cauliflower-like clusters of bacteria and lactic acid microbes. These bacteria reproduce, fermenting the milk for around 24 hours, resulting in a kefir drink. It is also high in calcium, protein, and B vitamins.
Traditional Buttermilk
Traditional buttermilk is a vitamin and mineral-rich dairy food that may benefit your joints’ oral health. You can also look into probiotics heart health pills that can help with your digestive system. People who are lactose intolerant or allergic to milk may have issues with it. Still, if you have no dairy allergies, buttermilk is an excellent and adaptable addition to a balanced diet. The two most common types are traditional buttermilk and cultured buttermilk. Traditional buttermilk is available mainly in India, Pakistan, and Nepal, whereas cultured buttermilk, commonly known in American stores, does not have any probiotic benefits.
Kimchi
Kimchi is a spicy fermented Korean side dish. The main ingredient is usually cabbage, but you can also make it with other vegetables. Kimchi is seasoned with various ingredients, including red chili pepper flakes, garlic, ginger, scallions, and salt. It contains the Lactobacillus kimchi lactic acid bacteria and other lactic acid bacteria beneficial to gut health. It contains some anti-oxidant components and β-Carotene, which can help lower the risk of serious health disorders like cancer, dementia, diabetes, and heart failure and enhance digestive health.
Kombucha (fermented tea)
Kombucha is a fermented, softly effervescent, sweet black or green tea. It’s famous for its alleged health benefits. The beverage is sometimes referred to as kombucha tea. Juice, spices, fruit, and other flavorings are frequently added. Kombucha is fermented with bacteria and yeast, so it is likely to have health benefits due to its probiotic properties. It helps prevent and manage severe health conditions ranging from high blood pressure to cancer, but these claims are not supported by science.
Tempeh
This Indonesian patty, made from fermented soybeans, produces a natural antibiotic that fights certain bacteria. Tempeh is high in protein as well. People frequently describe its flavor as smoky, nutty, and mushroom-like. Tempeh is an excellent choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to add a nutritious probiotic to their diet because it can be marinated and used in place of meat.
Conclusively, you can eat a variety of very beneficial probiotic foods. They comprise a wide range of fermented soybeans, dairy products, and vegetables. Six of the best are mentioned above, but there are many more. If you cannot get or consume any of these foods, you can take a probiotic supplement. Consult your doctor first to determine which option is best for you.