The Top 10 Probiotic Foods to Add to Your Diet Today
If you haven’t heard of probiotics before, they are specific types of bacteria that are beneficial to your health. Probiotics are often called “good bacteria” since they help maintain the balance of microorganisms in your gut. Your gut is home to millions of bacteria, both good and bad. When the bad bacteria outnumber the good bacteria, it can lead to several health problems like digestive issues, weakened immune system, obesity, and more.
Probiotics have several health benefits like improved digestion, strengthened immune system, reduced inflammation, and more. Probiotics can be found naturally in several foods. Adding these foods to your diet can help provide your gut with good bacteria and improve your overall health. Here are the top 10 probiotic foods to add to your diet today:
1. Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the most popular probiotic foods. It is made by fermenting milk with specific strains of bacteria. The bacteria produce lactic acid, which thickens the milk and gives yogurt its tangy taste. Yogurt contains several different strains of bacteria that are beneficial to your health. It can help improve digestion and boost your immune system.
2. Kefir
Kefir is similar to yogurt, but it is made by fermenting milk with kefir grains. Kefir grains consist of bacteria and yeast and are used to mask milk by feeding on the lactose. The result is a tangy, bubbly, and slightly sour drink that contains several strains of probiotics. Kefir can be consumed plain or added to smoothies.
3. Kimchi
Kimchi is a spicy Korean dish that is made by fermenting vegetables with specific strains of bacteria. The most common vegetable used in kimchi is cabbage, but it can also be made with radishes, cucumbers, and other vegetables. Kimchi is a good source of vitamins and minerals and contains several strains of probiotics that can help improve digestion and boost your immune system.
4. Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage that is commonly used in German cuisine. It is made by slicing cabbage and allowing it to ferment with salt and specific strains of bacteria. Sauerkraut is a good source of fiber and contains several strains of probiotics that can help improve digestion and boost your immune system.
5. Miso
Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning that is made by fermenting soybeans with a type of fungus called koji. Miso is commonly used in soups, dressings, and marinades. Miso is a good source of protein and contains several strains of probiotics that can help improve digestion and boost your immune system.
6. Tempeh
Tempeh is a meat substitute that is made by fermenting soybeans with a specific strain of bacteria. The result is a cake-like substance that has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture. Tempeh is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and contains several strains of probiotics that can help improve digestion and boost your immune system.
7. Pickles
Pickles are made by soaking cucumbers in vinegar and salt. When pickles are allowed to ferment, they become sour and tangy. Fermenting pickles allows the growth of specific strains of bacteria that are beneficial to your gut. Pickles are a good source of fiber and contain several strains of probiotics that can help improve digestion and boost your immune system.
8. Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea that is made by adding sugar and specific strains of bacteria and yeast to tea. The result is a slightly sweet and tangy drink that contains several strains of probiotics. Kombucha is also a good source of antioxidants and can help improve your overall health.
9. Sourdough bread
Sourdough bread is made by fermenting dough with specific strains of bacteria and yeast. The fermentation process gives sourdough bread its distinctive tart taste and chewy texture. Sourdough bread is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and contains several strains of probiotics that can help improve digestion and boost your immune system.
