Most of us haven’t even heard about probiotics until just the past few years. Did you know that probiotics are one of the fastest growing searches in the vitamin world? If you haven’t started adding probiotics to your daily regimen, then you’re probably wondering, “What’s the big deal with these? Why do we need them?”.
I am not a doctor, so you always need to hear from your healthcare professional about what supplements you should be taking, but we can learn some basics about probiotics so we can start the conversation.
Many of us are new to the world of whole food eating that feeds our body well. And through this, we’re also beginning to understand that many of the physical problems we suffer from aren’t actually found at the point of pain. But where are they sourced? Actually, many of them are symptoms of a greater problem we have in our gut (mostly considered small and large intestines). Yes, I said gut. When we have too many refined carbohydrates, starches, and sugars, this has a negative impact on our gut health by promoting unhealthy bacterial growth and imbalances. When our gut health is disrupted, which is true for most of us, a probiotic can introduce good bacteria back into our gut, helping to promote a better balance for our system.
Ok, so why should we care about our gut health? Let’s just say that you could search for information about the connection between gut health and many different types of diseases that we suffer from today, including Type 2 Diabetes, various Autoimmune diseases, IBS, to name a few. Having a healthy gut also helps us maintain a strong immune system overall.
So do you need to spend the money and take a probiotic supplement? Maybe, maybe not. If you think you do, talk to your healthcare professional about it before adding it into your routine. But one thing you can do is add some different foods into your diet. Kefir, yogurts (with active cultures), sauerkraut and kombucha are all fabulous sources of naturally occurring probiotics. Some people get enough natural forms of probiotics that a supplement simply isn’t necessary. So don’t spend your money on probiotic supplements if you don’t need to. But do make sure you’re feeding your gut healthy foods.
Here’s an easy sauerkraut recipe to start your journey. Homemade is always better! Otherwise, Trader Joe’s is my favorite source for yummy sauerkraut that I don’t have to make. Feeding your gut healthy foods should always taste good!
DISCLAIMER
Please know that I am not a doctor. I share my experiences with you to inspire, but not instruct.
The private or public use of any part of this article is at your own risk. The content of this article in part or in whole is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or illness.
You should seek the advice and counsel of your preferred medical professional prior to any new lifestyle or dietary changes.