Do you ever feel like your stomach has a mind of its own?
Well, you’re not wrong in thinking so, and here’s why…
The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that work as a second brain and influence your health, nutrition, digestion, mental health, and moods.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms (good bacteria) that provide various health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. Think of them as your gut’s best friends, working tirelessly to keep things running smoothly. Regular consumption of probiotic-rich foods can help maintain the delicate balance of your gut microbiome, improve digestion, and support overall well-being.
How Do I Know If I Need Probiotics?
Top 10 Probiotic Foods
1. Curd
Curd is an Indian version of Yoghurt with the best probiotics for gut health. It is usually made with dairy and fermented overnight by adding bacterial cultures to milk. The process thickens its consistency and adds Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria to it. It is a versatile food that can be enjoyed on its own, added to smoothies, or used as a base for savory dishes like raita.
2. Buttermilk
Buttermilk is the yummy, tangy liquid left behind after churning butter. It is loaded with probiotics that aid digestion and help maintain a healthy gut. Another version of buttermilk is chaach, made by mixing curd and water. Both recipes will help you create an elixir for your gut and maintain a diverse gut microbiome.
3. Paneer
Paneer, or cottage cheese, is one of the best probiotic-rich foods. It is made by curdling milk with an acidic substance like lemon juice. Rich in proteins and probiotics, paneer is the perfect example of a natural probiotic food. You can enjoy it as it is, in a gravy dish, salads, sandwiches, etc.
4. Idli
Idli is the perfect example of fermented food with probiotics. Made with rice and lentil batter, this South Indian dish is savory and healthy. The fermentation process boosts its probiotic content, making it a perfect gut-friendly breakfast or snack. Pair it with a chutney or sambhar for a mouth-watering experience.
5. Cheese
Cheese is famous for its yummy taste and richness, but many need to learn that cheese is healthy and rich in probiotics if taken in adequate amounts. No, this does not mean you binge-eat pizzas and pasta; we are talking about Gouda, Mozerella, and Cheddar. Add them in small quantities to your salads or snack platters.
6. Kefir
A fermented milk drink known for its probiotic properties. It is made by adding kefir grains to milk and fermenting overnight. Tangy to taste, this drink can be enjoyed alone, added to smoothies, or used as a base for salad dressings.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is trending for its detoxifying and weight-loss properties, but only some people know about its digestive properties. It is rich in probiotics and helps you maintain a healthy gut microbiome. The best way to include ACV in your diet is by adding it to your salad dressings and marinades. Avoid drinking it, as even when diluted with water, it can damage your tooth enamel if drunk continuously.
8. Kombucha
Simply put, Kombucha is fermented sweetened tea. It is made by adding a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) to sweetened tea. It is a tangy, effervescent drink that works like a tonic for a faulty gut.
9. Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is essentially fermented cabbage that’s rich in probiotics. Fermentation doesn’t just preserve the cabbage but also adds probiotic properties to it that aid in the digestive system and promote a healthy gut microbiome. Enjoy it as a side dish or with sandwiches.
10. Pickled Vegetables
Pickles are a staple in the Indian diet. They are a burst of savory flavors in your mouth that aren’t just yummy but also good for your gut. Options include pickled cucumbers, carrots, and radishes. Enjoy them as a crunchy snack, add them to sandwiches, or use them to top off a salad.
Conclusion
Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet is a healthy and delicious way to manage your digestive system. You can also try at-home gut microbiome testing to get valuable insights into your gut. Natural probiotic foods are not harmful and will benefit your overall health and well-being.
Happy Digesting!!!
Frequently Asked Questions
Probiotics are live microorganisms in your gut that maintain and regulate your gut health. These are good bacteria essential for the proper function of the digestive system. It is important in your body because a faulty gut microbiome will lead to various health diseases and weaken your immunity.
Yes, eating a probiotic rich diet will help you maintain a healthy gut and improve your overall health.
Not all fermented foods contain live probiotics. For a food to be considered probiotic, it must contain live and active cultures. Some commercially available fermented foods may undergo pasteurization or other processes that kill the beneficial bacteria. Always check labels for terms like “live cultures” or “contains probiotics” to ensure you’re getting the real deal.
Incorporating probiotic foods into your diet is easy and delicious. Start your day with a serving of curd or kefir, add sauerkraut or pickled veggies to your salads and sandwiches, enjoy a glass of kombucha as a refreshing drink, or use apple cider vinegar in your salad dressings. Experiment with different recipes to find what works best for you and your taste preferences.
