Skip to content

These Probiotic-Packed Foods Can Help Heal Your Gut

|
February 27, 2020
Photo Credit: Santi Nunez

There are billions of bacteria living in your digestive tract. Some of them are good; some of them are not so good. You probably know that probiotic supplements are a great way to boost the good bacteria in your gut, improving digestion, mood, and even metabolism. But there are also plenty of probiotic foods that are just as good as a supplement, if not better. At the end of the day, the best way to maintain your health is through a clean, balanced diet.

These 3 grocery items contain as many bacteria as most probiotics. Add them to your routine and see how you feel.

1. Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is one of the most underrated health foods. It’s full of beneficial bacteria and you get the added benefits of cabbage and other veggies. Cleveland Kitchen makes sauerkraut that has these benefits and more. Their krauts contain both pre- and probiotics that are the perfect way to boost your immune system all year long but especially in the winter months. In particular we love their garlic kraut, which contains raw and roasted garlic (which have displayed powerful antimicrobial properties to help you fend off germs) and a touch of black pepper. 

Buy It: Cleveland Kitchen Roasted Garlic Kraut, $24 for 4 packs

2. Yogurt

Yogurt is one of the best sources of probiotics. Eating yogurt reduces inflammation, a key factor in gut health, and regulates your appetite. It has also been shown to aid digestion in lactose-intolerant individuals. But not all yogurts are created equal. Many yogurts, especially flavored ones, are loaded with sugar. These days, our favorite yogurts are actually dairy-free. Lavva‘s yogurts are made with coconut water, coconut cream, plantains, pili nuts, and cassava root. They have absolutely no added colors, gums, or sugars. And, a single serving contains 50 billion probiotics. 

Buy It: Lavva Plant-Based Yogurt, $6 for 16 ounces

3. Kefir

If you start your mornings with a smoothie, kefir is the perfect addition. This fermented milk drink adds a delicious creamy texture, tart flavor, and plenty of probiotics. According to a study published in Frontiers in Microbiology, kefir can also improve your cholesterol, support a healthier immune system, and decrease inflammation. As with yogurt, look for a product that’s organic with no sugar added. We love Green Valley Creamery’s products, which are completely lactose-free and contain 11 unique strains of probiotics. 

Buy It: Green Valley Creamery Whole Milk Kefir, $4 for 32 ounces

Good food
brings
people together.
So do
good emails.

What our editors love right now

Good food brings people together.
So do good emails.

  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden