Natural Foods With Probiotics

Probiotics are healthy bacteria that are consumed from food and supplements. According to Harvard School of Public Health the health benefits of probiotics include the treatment of diarrhea, improved digestion, and reduced risk of infections of the urinary tract. Consuming natural foods with probiotics is a healthy way to improve gut health.

Yogurt

Yogurt is perhaps the most well-known natural food with probiotics. The fermentation process that produces yogurt also significantly increases levels of probiotics found in yogurt. In addition to promoting overall digestive health, the probiotic strain in yogurt -- Lactobacillus acidophilus -- produces the essential vitamin K, MayoClinic.com reports.
Note that pasteurization destroys much of the live probiotics in yogurt. Check the label to ensure that it contains "live and active" probiotics. Kefir is another fermented dairy product rich in probiotics.

Tempeh

Tempeh is a protein and probiotic-rich fermented soybean product. Tempeh is sometimes mixed with grains such as millet to give it a nutty flavor. Tempeh is also one of the few vegan sources of complete protein that has all of the amino acids your body needs for health.

Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is a popular side dish and condiment in Germany. Sauerkraut is made by fermenting cabbage over time. You can add sauerkraut by your diet by adding it to salads and sandwiches. Opt to avoid heating sauerkraut at high temperatures as this may destroy some of the probiotics it contains.

Kimchi

Kimchi is a staple in Korean cuisine. Kimchi is the result of picking vegetables including spinach, cucumber and cabbage. Research published in the July 2010 "Journal of Applied Microbiology" notes that kimchi contains a unique strain of probiotic that slows the growth of cancer cells.

Kombucha

Kombucha is a tea-based drink that contains high levels of active probiotics. Although rich in tea, kombucha has a strong vinegary taste and contains B vitamins and other chemical compounds. MayoClinic.com physician Brent A. Bauer, M.D., notes that many of the health claims attributed to kombucha are not supported by scientific research. Bauer adds that kombucha has produced infection, digestive upset and allergic reactions in sensitive people.