Probiotics are foods that contain a healthy type of bacteria similar to the bacteria naturally found in the human gut. According to the Mayo Clinic, probiotics can improve digestion and possibly increase the function of the immune system by fighting of harmful forms of bacteria. There are many possible nutritional benefits of probiotics that are still being researched. For example, the Mayo Clinic states that probiotics may be able to reduce yeast infections, prevent eczema and prevent bladder cancer reoccurrence. Eating foods with probiotics every day is a great idea to maintain optimum health.
Yogurt
The Mayo Clinic states that yogurt is one of the best foods to choose to get probiotics in your diet. Many dairy products, including yogurt contain healthy bacteria. While some yogurts naturally contain probiotics, often labeled as "live and active cultures", other yogurts such as Dannon's Activia have added probiotics. The amount of probiotics in yogurt varies based on the brand and is often labeled on the container.
Miso
Miso is a healthy food that is used in Japanese cuisine. Americans may be familiar with the Japanese food miso soup, though miso paste and other products containing the fermented plant are also available. The Mayo Clinic recommends eating miso to get probiotics in your diet. Though probiotics can be attained through supplementation, it's less expensive and a better idea to get them in your diet by trying new foods such as miso.
Tempeh
Tempeh is used in Indonesian cooking. It is made from fermented soybeans. Tempeh is similar tofu but has a heartier texture. Tempeh is rich in healthy probiotics, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The probiotics in tempeh come from the fermentation process.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is consumed as an alternative to cow's milk by people who have lactose intolerance or do not like cow's milk. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says soy beverages like soy milk contain probiotics, so they may aid in digestion, decrease the occurrence of diarrhea and relieve the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
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