You've probably been hearing lots of talk about gut health and ways to improve it. One of the best ways to do this is by eating foods with probiotics. Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as yeasts and bacteria, that can benefit your gut health and, as a result, your overall health when you consume them. There are plenty of foods that contain probiotics without needing to rely on probiotic supplements. Just make sure to consult with your doctor first before making any major changes to your diet, especially if you have a medical condition or if you have issues with your digestive system.
What are probiotics?
"Probiotics are live microorganisms, often called 'good bacteria,' that help maintain a healthy balance in your gut by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and suppressing harmful ones," said Gillean Barkyoumb, a registered dietitian and nutrition expert at Plexus Worldwide, which sells dietary supplements.
"Probiotics are commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut, as well as in dietary supplements," she added. "Regularly consuming probiotics can support digestion, boost your immune system and may even improve mood and overall well-being."
To determine which foods high in probiotics are right for you, we compiled a helpful list below. But before you change your diet, make sure to consult your doctor first.
What are the best foods for probiotics?
If you want more probiotics in your diet, below are 12 excellent probiotic-rich foods. Look for labeling that reads, "contains live cultures" or "contains active cultures" in these common probiotic foods. Additionally, you may also consider probiotic supplements if your doctor recommends them.
1. Yogurt
A staple probiotic-rich food, go for yogurt with live and active cultures. Some yogurts are specifically marketed for their probiotic content or to help improve digestion. Yogurt usually has L. acidophilus bacteria, which can promote the growth of good bacteria in your gut. Yogurt is a great option because it's widely available, comes in a variety of flavors to suit your taste and can be eaten straight from the container.
Yogurt typically contains gut-boosting L. acidophilus bacteria. Huizeng Hu/Getty Images
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