Probiotics: What is Good Bacteria?

 It’s true, when people think of bacteria it almost always makes them think of illness and disease. Pictures of runny noses and maybe even symptoms of food poisoning pop up in our heads. But does all bacteria result in sick days from work? Unfortunately, no. There is such a thing as “good” bacteria. These are also known as probiotics. These good bacteria can have numerous positive effects on health and wellness including, but not limited to:

• Helping break down and digest food

• Communicate with your immune system

• Reduce inflammation

 Probiotics are not to be confused with prebiotics. While probiotics are microorganisms that live in our gut and help provide multiple health benefits, prebiotics are the food source for this good bacteria.

The Science

From the moment we are born, our bodies become inhabited by microbes such as bacteria. These microbes cover the entire internal surface of our digestive tract and provide assistance in breaking down the food that passes through it. If the microbes that are in our digestive tract are not “pro human” it can lead to digestive problems, gastrointestinal issues, insufficient nutrients absorption, problems with weight, and it can even affect our mood. That is why it is so important to take care of our microbiome and provide the support needed to allow it to keep our bodies at optimal health. That is where the use and need for probiotice come into play. Probiotics are non digestible microorganisms that provide numerous gut health benefits when adequate amounts are consumed. 

Where are they found?

If your body is telling you that your microbiome might need a little attention there are many food products that can help with getting the proper amount of probiotics into the gut. Dairy-based product include, but are not limited to:

• Buttermilk

• Cheese

• Yogurt

• Fermented milk

• Ice cream

• Milk powder

Non dairy products such as soybean produce, nutrition bars, cereal, and different fruit juices are also good sources of probiotics. Click here to find different recipes to support gut health.