Obtain the Best Available Friendly Gut Flora for Your Health

These can be obtained from a pharmacy or through online medical stores. USANA probiotics are an example of a good source of the medicine obtained online.

The most common probiotics are-

Lactobacillus-

This one can be found in yogurt and other fermented foods. It is of use in lactose intolerant people who are not able to digest lactose, the milk sugar. Also, it helps ease the symptoms of diarrhea.

Bifidobacterium-

This may help produce relief from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Uses of probiotics:-

Probiotics help mobilize food in the gut. Common conditions where they help are-

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Antibiotic-related diarrhea
• Infectious diarrhea  (due to bacteria, viruses and parasites)

They are also known to ease the symptoms in the non- gut related issues like-

• Skin conditions, like eczema
• Urinary and vaginal health
• Preventing allergies and colds
• Oral health

Naturally occurring probiotics-

Probiotics can be obtained naturally as well. Some of the sources rich in probiotics are-

1. Yogurt

As known, yoghurt is a rich source of probiotics and is particularly high in thermophillus, bifudus, bulgaricus and acidophilus. As not all yoghurt is manufactured similarly, it is important to verify the ingredients before consumption.


2. Dark Chocolate

This scrumptious and rich source of probiotics is available almost at any local shop and is a safe alternative to medication. But still when it comes to consuming chocolate, please take care.

3. Sauerkraut

Made from fermented cabbage (and sometimes other vegetables), sauerkraut is not only extremely rich in healthy live cultures, but might also help with reducing allergy symptoms. Sauerkraut is also rich in vitamins B, A, E and C.

4. Kimchi

Served with meals alongside, kimchi is spiced sauerkraut and is attributed to Asian cuisine. It is as high in spice as it is in probiotics. If the taste buds can handle the heat, this could prove a good source of friendly gut flora.

5. Kefir

Kefir grains fermented and added to goat’s milk is high in lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria.

6. Microalgae

Blue green algae have shown to increase the amount of both Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria in the digestive tract. This makes them qualify into the list of probiotic sources.

7. Miso

Traditional Japanese medicine practitioners could swear by Miso which is produced from fermented rye, beans, rice or barley. Rich in lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria, miso in some hot water makes a probiotic.

8. Pickles

Green pickle is an excellent food source of probiotics.

9. Tempeh

Tempeh is a fermented, probiotic-rich grain made from soybeans that can replace meat or tofu in the diet.

With minor side effects, like gas or bloating, to major infections requiring antibiotic coverage, probiotics, especially for children, should be bought only after referring to a medical practitioner and from trusted sources. Obtaining medicinal probiotics are also easy. Good brands, like USANA probiotics deal in a variety of supplements based on one’s requirements.