The pros of probiotics

You may be familiar with the word probiotics, but not necessarily know what they are or why they are important for your overall health. The word probiotic comes from a combination of two Greek words; ‘pro’ to signify promotion, and ‘biotic’ which means life. So basically it’s just that; the promotion of life!  

Our bodies are home to billions of bacterial cells, many of which are found in the digestive tract.  Today, researchers believe these bacteria and yeast-like organisms play an important part in your health. Here’s how.

Probiotics help by aiding the digestion process, as well as keeping the intestines healthy.  Those helpful little bacteria break down food and absorb nutrients our bodies need to thrive. By incorporating probiotic rich foods into your diet, you can promote and maintain good intestinal flora.

A healthy gut also leads to a healthy, strong immune system.  Did you know the process of fermentation preserves food, but it also creates healthy bacteria?  Fermented foods have been shown to increase production from lymphocytes, a building block in immune response.

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The best fermented foods for getting a healthy dose of probiotics are the following:

• Plain yogurt (non-pasteurized)
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Miso
• Pickles
• Tempeh
• Kimchi
• Kombucha Tea

When incorporating fermented, probiotic rich foods into your diet, to get the most benefit, eat small amounts on a regular basis.  For example once or twice a week will help keep your gut bacteria to be happy and healthy.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.