What Foods Have Acidophilus & Bifidus?

Acidophilus and bifidus are beneficial bacteria that naturally live in your intestines. These bacteria work together to increase immunity and balance the digestive system. Acidophilus and bifidus supply the body with essential vitamins and nutrients. They produce vitamins K, vitamin B, lactase enzyme, and other immune and digestive system aides. An effective dose should contain 10 billion colony-forming units. Together they can help increase immunity and decrease diarrhea and other digestive problems.

Yogurt

Fresh and unpasteurized yogurt contains acidophilus and bifidus. Pasteurized yogurt will not have probiotics as the process kills the good bacteria. Brands that are labeled with live and active cultures will provide a healthy dose of bacteria. Brand names containing live cultures include Dannon's Activia and Yoplait's YoPlus.

Acidophilus Milk and Kefir

Acidophilus milk is fermented or is supplemented with live cultures. Kefir is a fermented milk drink. It is often found flavored or mixed with fruit. Acidophilus can be found in Dannon's DanActive milk. Kefir can be found under a variety of names in the dairy section.

Yogurt Cheese

Yogurt cheese is made from unpasteurized yogurt. Yogurt is strained until the whey separates from the solids, leaving a creamy white cheese full of acidophilus and bifidus cultures. You can make yogurt cheese at home, but you can also find it in grocery and health food stores.

Miso Paste

Miso is a Japanese soup base and rice seasoning made from fermented soybeans or grains that possess the koji fungus. Miso is sold in a brown, red or yellow paste. Miso is an ideal probiotic supplement for vegans and vegetarians, and you can find it in Japanese markets and international food stores.

Liquid Probiotics

You can add liquid supplements to foods to increase their health benefits. Effective probiotics should be refrigerated and not past the sell date. Probiotics should never be added to hot food or you risk killing the bacteria. You can find acidophilus and bifidus supplements in the probiotic section of your pharmacy or grocery store.