Probiotics
An Ancient Health Miracle
Probiotics are microbial ingredients that contain health benefits to the body when ingested, and are present in many of the foods we eat. Awareness of nutrition is growing and with it comes the demand for a better understanding of this naturally occurring nutritional powerhouse. Mainly active in the large intestines, they are becoming increasingly popular for the treatment of many ailments.
History
Ancient cultures have long lauded the health benefits of certain foods which often of necessity became ingrained in their daily diet. The scarcity of certain types of foods and the lack of modern storage techniques led to the development of culturing and fermenting as methods to both preserve and conserve food while abundant for leaner times. While unaware of the exact beneficial properties in these foods, these ancient people did know that they were nutritious.
Helpful Yeasts & Bacteria
Cultured milk products have been around for thousands of years in one form or another. Kefir, one such product, contains very high levels of probiotics. A traditional fermented milk beverage, it is produced by combining cow, sheep or goat milk with kefir grains which result in a beverage that is sour in flavor but abundant with helpful yeasts and bacteria. Other probiotic-rich dairy products include yogurt, buttermilk, lebne (a yogurt-based spreadable cheese), acidophilus milk and some cottage cheeses and sour creams have added cultures. In addition, many types of cheeses have varying levels of probiotics.
Fermented Goodness
Fermented cabbage is a staple of many cultures including German, Central American and Asian. Traditionally fermented cabbage is high in probiotics, though modern day techniques of mass production include pasteurization which destroys the beneficial bacteria. Some health-conscious companies are leaving the fermented cabbage un-pasteurized but refrigerated, in order to preserve the probiotics. Additionally, foods like unpasteurized pickles and olives that are brine-cured, are also naturally high in probiotics.
Health Benefits
Research into the full potential of probiotics is still in its infancy, and only some results are available but what is emerging is very positive. While human based data is limited, some studies are showing that a bacteria named lactobacillus bulgaricus can aid in protecting against colon cancers, and some population studies have shown that there are lower occurrences of colon cancer in areas which consumer higher amounts of fermented dairy drinks. Studies are also reporting probiotic efficacy in the ability to reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, improving immune systems, reducing inflammation and more.
Warning
While there is little evidence to support any negative side effects to a diet rich in probiotics, care should be taken prior to changing one’s diet. Always consult with a health care professional prior to making any changes.
Yogurt - Rich in Probiotics
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