Caring for your stomach is essential to maintaining your overall health and well-being. One way to promote good digestive health is by incorporating probiotics into your diet. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to your gut microbiome. These good bacteria help to balance the bacteria in your stomach, which can help to protect you from harmful germs and improve your digestion.

There are many different types of probiotics, and they can be found in various foods. One of the most common sources of probiotics is fermented foods. Fermented foods undergo a natural process that involves the breakdown of sugars and carbohydrates by bacteria and yeast. This process produces beneficial probiotics that can help to improve your gut health. Some examples of fermented foods that contain probiotics include:

1. Yogurt – This is perhaps the most well-known source of probiotics. Yogurt is made by fermenting milk with lactic acid bacteria, which produces beneficial probiotics. Look for plain, unsweetened yogurt with live active cultures for the most probiotic benefit.
2. Sauerkraut – Sauerkraut is a type of fermented cabbage that is rich in probiotics. It’s also a good source of vitamins C and K.
3. Kimchi is a Korean dish made from fermented vegetables, usually cabbage. It’s a spicy and flavorful source of probiotics.

In addition to fermented foods, you can also find probiotics in supplement form. Probiotic supplements are available in capsule, tablet, and powder form. When choosing a probiotic supplement, look for one that contains a variety of strains of beneficial bacteria and has many live cultures.

Ask your primary care provider (PCP) about probiotics at your next appointment. Probiotics are a great way to care for your stomach and promote good digestive health. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha, can help to improve the balance of bacteria in your gut and protect you from harmful germs. If you’re looking for a more concentrated source of probiotics, consider taking a probiotic supplement. Always consult with your healthcare provider before changing your diet or supplement regimen.