The word "bacteria" may conjure up an image of microscopic organisms that should stay as far away from you as possible. On the contrary, some bacteria is good for you and can actually improve your health. Probiotics, the foods that contains good bacteria, may help digestive issues and protect the body from bacteria that is harmful, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Yogurt
Yogurt is the most universally known probiotic. It explains right on the label that it contains "active cultures." However, not all yogurts contain active cultures. According to Mary Ellen Sanders of Dairy & Food Culture Technologies, yogurt sold in stores in the United States is required to undergo a fermentation process with both Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, the most commonly used bacteria found in food products. Once the yogurt has fermented, however, there is no regulation stating these cultures must stay in the yogurt. Some companies use heat to remove the cultures after the yogurt has fermented. These yogurts will not include the "active cultures" or "live cultures" label on the yogurt.
If you are seeking a probiotic yogurt, Mary Ellen Sanders suggests that any yogurt containing an "active cultures" label clearly on the packaging is a wise choice.
Milk
Milk is not usually produced with Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus because it is not necessary to ferment milk before it is sold. Some milk manufacturers, however, have added these cultures to create a probiotic milk that is said to aid in digestion and may help those who are lactose intolerant digest milk. According to Sanders, this milk contains approximately 500 million bacteria per 8-ounce glass. Probiotic milk is often more expensive than regular milk and will clearly state on the label that it contains active cultures or is probiotic.
Cheese
Probiotic cheeses, although not necessary for fermentation, have been introduced to grocery stores throughout the United States due to the overwhelming popularity of probiotics, especially in dairy. Probiotic cheese manufacturers state that the product provides GI tract benefits, although Dr. Gregor Reid, the director of the Canadian Research and Development Centre for Probiotics, states that these cheeses are "not backed by clinical trials," according to Food Quality News. Although these cheeses may improve gastrointestinal tract health and are readily available in stores, there is not yet any proof that clearly states these particular cheeses, including cottage cheese, cream cheese and cheddar cheese, are beneficial.
Other Foods
Other probiotic foods include yogurt drinks, milkshakes, baby food and even gum. Although there is not yet any proof that these probiotic products have substantial effects on their consumers, because the bacteria is not harmful, such products are available in grocery stores and health food stores across the country.
