Probiotics are colonies of live microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and yeast that are essential for the well being of the human body. These microscopic friends of ours line the gut and other organs in the body and ease bodily functions like absorption and digestion of nutrients. By eating processed, deep fried, packaged, canned and refined foods, we impair our natural probiotic system. Which is why, adding probiotics to your diet is a good idea.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF PROBIOTICS
–Fight infections: A healthy probiotic level can fend off infections of several kinds in our gastrointestinal, urinary and respiratory tracts.
–Improve digestion: The primary function of probiotics is to ensure proper digestion and assimilation of all nutrients. This is essential for our energy levels.
–Boost immunity: Our immune system situated majorly in the digestive tract, gets a real kick out of the good microbes. This live system regularly checks the growth of harmful microorganisms and prevents illness.
–Help in weight loss: Studies show that some strains of probiotics like lactobacillus fights obesity. Use the low-fat or low-calorie version of the probiotics of the best results.
–Good for vaginal health: The probiotic balance maintains the health of the urogenital system in women. The microorganisms maintain the acidic nature of the vagina to check the growth of harmful bacteria or fungus. This also supplies new-borns with their dose of probiotics.
–Promote healthy teeth: Research has shown that probiotic bacteria fights tooth decay and bad odour in the mouth. So for improved oral health, ensure that you get your dose of probiotics every day.
COMMON PROBIOTICS YOU CAN ADD TO YOUR DIET
–Yogurt: The most famous probiotic of them all. It is best to opt for the probiotic yogurt that is easily available in the market. The home made curd (dahi) also contains good bacteria, but the concentration varies as compared to yoghurt. Have 2 servings a day for best results.
–Pickles: This essential component of any Indian meal is rich in probiotics along with several other health benefits that it boasts of. So make some at home and spice up your meals.
–Dark chocolate: Besides being rich in anti-oxidants, dark chocolate is a good source of probiotics as well. Substitute the milk chocolate with the dark variety for oodles of health.
–Apples: Apples are not a direct source of probiotics. However, the high fibre content of the fruit promotes probiotic growth in our bodies. An apple a day, as the wise guy said.
–Paneer: Paneer is something that we all have grown up on. It, being produced from fermented milk, is laden with probiotics. Eat 100 gms portions as frequently as you can.
–Soy milk: A great option for the lactose intolerant, soy milk is a natural source of probiotics. It is easily available in Indian supermarkets now. Drink a glass every day.
Besides these, regional Indian delicacies like Dhokla, Pithe-puli, dried fish, Idli and Dosa are all potent sources of probiotics.
So, go ahead and add these probiotic foods to your diet for improved health and immunity. Stay Healthy, Stay Happy with 1mg, the online medicine store in India!