Not all bacteria have negative effects on the body. In fact, your body carries approximately 100 trillion bacteria, mostly in your colon. These bacteria help to strengthen your immune system and prevent disease. Some foods in the grocery store are labeled as being high in probiotics and are usually labeled as GRAS, or generally recognized as safe, by the Food and Drug Administration.
Probiotics
The helpful bacteria called probiotics contribute to the health and balance of the intestinal tract and help to fight illnesses and diseases. A healthy lower intestine will contain approximately 85 percent friendly bacteria that help to prevent the overcolonization of microorganisms that cause disease and illness, such as E. coli and salmonella. Dr. Gabe Mirkin, graduate of Harvard University and practicing physician for 40 years, reports that these good bacteria help ferment undigestible plant fibers into chemicals that can be absorbed in the bloodstream to help lower cholesterol and prevent heart attacks; they also form other chemicals that protect your intestinal lining. Benefits from probiotics include reducing allergy conditions, reducing cancer risk, reducing diarrhea and the risk of stomach ulcers, helping individuals who are lactose intolerant, strengthening the immune system and reducing hypertension.
Yogurt
One of the most popular probiotics foods is live cultured yogurt. Look for brands that are made from goat's milk that has been infused with other probiotics such as lactobacillus or acidophilus. Goat's milk yogurt is high in probiotics such as thermophillus, bulgaricus and acidophilus. Yogurts made with high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners and flavors will not contain key probiotics necessary to infuse your lower intestines with good bacteria.
Kefir
Some of the best probiotics are made from fermented foods and drinks, including milk kefir. This food can be made at home from dairy products or coconut milk. Kefir is similar to a liquid yogurt and is usually loaded with vitamins, minerals and easily digestible and complete protein. The product can be made from milk of cows, goats, sheep, coconut, rice or soy and may be slightly mucous forming.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is made from fermented cabbage and other vegetables. It is not only very high in healthy live cultures of probiotics bacteria, but it also is rich in vitamins A, B, C and E. Sauerkraut is a favorite side dish with pork or corned beef and can also be added to sandwiches and salads.
Dark Chocolate
Although high in fats, dark chocolate has four times the amount of probiotics found in many forms of dairy products. Dark chocolate has many other health benefits, including helping to reduce your LDL cholesterol and being rich in flavonols that help to protect your heart. However, because it is high in calories, you should eat it in moderation.
