Tasty Ways to Get In Your Probiotics
Another way to get in your daily dose of probiotics is through apple cider vinegar. “Apple cider vinegar is a probiotic food that is created through a lengthy fermentation process,” explains Paulina Lee, MSHS, RD, LD, a functional gut health dietitian and founder of Savvy Stummy, LLC.
“Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product or more specifically a yogurt-based drink with live cultures of lactic acid bacteria,” explains Lee. “Lactic acid bacteria in buttermilk is a probiotic that provides healthy support for your gut and immune system by helping to break down and absorb nutrients.”
Some cheese, like cottage cheese, contains probiotics. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “The curdling process used to produce cottage cheese adds beneficial bacteria that can promote better gut health.” Just be sure to check the label for active and live cultures to ensure your cottage cheese contains probiotics.
“Greek yogurt is created from milk that has been fermented by probiotics, like lactic acid bacteria or bifidobacteria,” explains Lee. “Greek yogurt often contains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus casei that are known to increase good bacteria in the gut and improve digestion.”
Kefir is a fermented milk drink, and many fermented foods naturally contain probiotics. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Like other foods that contain probiotics (good bacteria) and postbiotics (bacteria byproducts), kefir boosts gut health and provides a number of other health benefits.”
Kimchi is a popular Korean side dish that’s usually made from fermented cabbage or other fermented vegetables, such as radishes. It is usually flavored with seasonings and spices such as garlic, ginger, red chili pepper flakes, salt, and scallions.
Kombucha is a fermented tea made from black tea or green tea. It is a beverage that is flavorful, fizzy, and subtly tart at times. According to the Cleveland Clinic, fermented foods such as kombucha, contain probiotics.