Our gut does more than digest food — it's a powerhouse for overall health, from boosting immunity to supporting mental well-being. Probiotics, the "good" bacteria in our systems, play a key role in maintaining this balance and are essential for keeping your body and mind thriving.
There are two ways to get more good bacteria into your gut: fermented foods and dietary supplements. Probiotic supplements, which are typically sold over the counter, are reserved to treat specific ailments as suggested by your doctor. They are not recommended for everyday use. Plus, supplements do not have the same FDA oversight as medications do.
Fermented foods, on the other hand, are an excellent natural source of probiotics. Fermenting is one of the oldest techniques for food preservation. Foods that are fermented go through a process of lactofermentation in which natural bacteria feed on the sugar and starch in the food, creating lactic acid.
