Whether you've been gulping down your daily vitamins since childhood or you've decided it's time to supplement your diet with the essential nutrients of a multivitamin, more and more adults are relying on subscription services to deliver their daily nutrition.
From personalized vitamins to adaptogenic mushroom powders, there's probably a vitamin subscription company that meets your needs. With most you can even fill out a questionnaire to make sure you're getting the right supplements for your needs.
But are all of these brands, with their sleek matte pill bottles and transparent capsules, created equally?
Seed
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTU0MzU3Ny9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMDE4MjEyOX0.UjQub-j6NLVz8WA0QAPF0YGt-tH0a_CLRfIKTf3K99E/img.png?width=980" id="1f98d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="f56f5a619c86a4608b4fb848339136e8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="271" />Seed
<p>Seed has carefully and thoroughly applied sustainability measures to every step of its manufacturing, packaging, and customer experience.</p><p>New customers receive a welcome kit made of compostable foam and algae paper containing a glass jar of <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/best-probiotic-2648792610.html" data-linked-post="2648792610" target="_blank">probiotics</a> and a portable vial for travel. </p><p>When you run out, a refill comes in a compostable pouch insulated by non-GMO corn foam. Wondering how to dispose of that foam? Run it under water and watch it disappear! </p><p>Seed's zero-waste approach to packaging and shipping is setting the standard for every industry when it comes to sustainability. This is gut health with ocean health in mind.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>recyclable and biodegradable packaging; vitamin refill program; plant-based; preservative-, gluten- and corn-free</p><p><strong>Price: </strong>$49.99 per month</p>GEM
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTU0MzU3Ni9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxODkwOTA4Nn0.tPMTyjYmcF7OcAmZZOAB1YII_J8Q5POED9n62IQG4Bc/img.png?width=980" id="63619" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9990850d587084fa1b16e2891bf54b3d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />GEM
<p>GEM is unlike any other supplement subscription on the market. Instead of sending powders or pills, your monthly GEM delivery contains chewable nutrition gummies made with whole-food ingredients like spirulina, <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/ways-to-eat-chia-seeds-2635903173.html" data-linked-post="2635903173" target="_blank">chia seeds</a>, quinoa and dates.</p><p>Their ingredients are carefully selected from trusted sources for maximum nutritional benefits. They're also minimally processed. In fact, each bite looks like something you could mix up in a food processor at home. </p><p>What's more, your first month is delivered in a refillable tin and every subsequent month's bites come in a compostable pouch for waste-free packaging.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>chewable, real food supplements made with plant-based ingredients; zero-waste, refillable packaging</p><p><span></span><strong>Price:</strong> $39 per month</p>Nurish by Nature Made
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTU0MzU2My9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MDY5NTE3OX0.e6fEFQjiZWwXwvtHT_wInjXPw0pgLVRw5DWtY2kGxIk/img.png?width=980" id="3e21b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d42f2d2b383f1f9eeff59dd4b1050a91" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="389" />Nurish
<p>We like that Nurish by Nature Made's subscription line of personalized vitamins come backed by 50 years of experience in the vitamin and supplement space. You have probably seen Nature Made's magnesium, calcium, or vitamin B12 at your local drug store.</p><p>Every pill is made in small batches and each order is individually inspected for quality and accuracy. Nature Made is also closely partnered with the US Pharmacopeia, a non-profit that sets purity and potency standards for supplements. </p><p>Their personalized supplement offerings include products for men's health, prenatal and post-natal vitamins, brain health, and diabetes health.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> Small batch, all ingredients vetted by nutritional scientists</p><p><span></span><strong>Pric</strong><strong>e:</strong> $20+ per month</p>Care/of
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTU0MzU2Mi9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0ODY1MTYyMH0.r5na5WclQl-T_a9y-DQczxTQcw0Q23QfjTiZqIBOUh4/img.png?width=980" id="17de7" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="81e557d041e10992d87a946ac92736c6" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="500" data-height="366" />Care/of
<p>Care/of has made a loud and public commitment to increasing the sustainability of their single-serving, daily dose personalized vitamins. The brand recently switched to fully compostable, plant-based packaging, the first step on their way towards a more sustainable business. </p><p>Care/of offers both western-style letter vitamins and traditional ayurvedic herbs like <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/health-benefits-of-ashwagandha-2641294107.html" data-linked-post="2641294107" target="_blank">ashwagandha</a> and reishi for those looking for alternative solutions. </p><p>The brand is also transparent about its sourcing from around the world, and it maintains close relationships with the producers who supply their products.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> plant-based, compostable vitamin packs; all products tested a minimum of three times</p><p><span></span><strong>Price: </strong>$5+ per month</p>Persona
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTU0MzU2MC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNjY3OTAzNX0.zUQESzO3C7nrBJcjJuwSUCMV77jlx-VkptX_yrt1Has/img.png?width=980" id="d6b1b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="cf50ee169c7a9efc1e8a903bd45bb818" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="260" />Persona
<p>Persona is probably the most clinically-viable brand on this list. New customers take an in-depth personalized nutritional assessment designed by an in-house Medical Advisory Board of doctors and health experts. Board members include Michael Roizen Chief Wellness Officer at the Cleveland Clinic, and Robin West, Team Doctor for the Washington Nationals. This team of experts, along with Persona's nutritionists, relies on cutting-edge research to ensure the brand's recommendations are up to date and each customer gets the exact right vitamin regime for her needs.</p><p><strong>W</strong><strong>hy buy:</strong> all ingredients carefully sourced from trusted resources; all products meet FDA regulations and meet Good Manufacturing Practices standards</p><strong>Price: </strong>$0.12 per dayRitual
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTU0MzU1OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MDkzNzMwOX0.extaCx9xfCODpYTrMd-Iq86MRgBkBMH871m4cAZdJaw/img.jpg?width=980" id="07a44" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="fe2db8e572c270f58a4038808fc0d73b" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Ritual
<p>We like that Ritual makes all of its sources and suppliers fully traceable and available to consumers. Its website details the backstory of each carefully-sourced ingredient and the human supplier. This level of transparency is hard to find in the supplement world, and really sets Ritual apart.</p><p>This women-founded and led business takes female health seriously and provides nuanced and targeted supplements to uniquely meet women's' nutritional needs. </p><p><strong>Why</strong><strong> buy:</strong> vegan; gluten-free; allergy-free; non-GMO, free of synthetic fillers</p><p><span></span><strong>Price:</strong> $30+ per month</p>Vivo Life
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTU0MzU1OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2OTM4MzYwMn0.8h7NvG97JhS4TeL9XV1EWfoEsbBXTT6VOxzOcLDW0EY/img.jpg?width=980" id="6ba6b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="e83318f6b884615bcf1a5f2069a76a85" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="282" />Vivo Life
<p>Vivo Life is a leader in the supplement space when it comes to environmental consciousness. In addition to making only 100% plant-based supplements that cover everything from <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/plant-based-protein-powder-2648794018.html" data-linked-post="2648794018" target="_blank">plant-based protein powders</a> to omega-3 vitamins to adaptogenic mushroom lattes, Vivo Life also plants a tree for every order made through their website. </p><p>The brand also goes a step further to ensure that all of its packaging, including shipping materials, are recyclable and made with 100% recycled materials. And the cherry on top comes from being certified carbon neutral, meaning Vivo offsets all of its carbon emissions to partners who reinvest the emissions into renewable energy projects.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> Certified carbon neutral; 100% plant-based products; 1 tree planted for every website order; carbon-neutral delivery</p><p><span></span><strong>Price: </strong>$14+ per month</p>Form Nutrition
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTU0MzU1Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyODg0MDM4N30.CRUSKxGshSRIuC_TTASadpQlfHcIkwuRWhq846QKpSc/img.jpg?width=980" id="a01d8" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="1e6e9e6551f405e2f4049a3c0b10229b" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="267" />Form
<p>Form's B-Corp Certification speaks for itself: this brand is committed to doing right by the environment. All of their packaging is plastic-free.</p><p>Protein powders come in compostable bags and vitamins are shipped in reusable, recyclable glass bottles. Form also has a customer recycling program to return empty pill bottles for cleaning and reuse. </p><p>In addition to fully traceable ingredients and a plant-based commitment, Form offers some of the highest-quality and most sustainable vitamins on the market.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>fully plant-based; every purchase supports the Form Feeding Fund; Certified B-Corp</p><p><span></span><strong>Price:</strong> $29+ per month</p>EcoWatch Daily Newsletter
A Healthy Microbiome Builds a Strong Immune System That Could Help Defeat COVID-19
By Ana Maldonado-Contreras
Takeaways
- Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that are vital for keeping you healthy.
- Some of these microbes help to regulate the immune system.
- New research, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, shows the presence of certain bacteria in the gut may reveal which people are more vulnerable to a more severe case of COVID-19.
You may not know it, but you have an army of microbes living inside of you that are essential for fighting off threats, including the virus that causes COVID-19.
How Do Resident Bacteria Keep You Healthy?
<p>Our immune defense is part of a complex biological response against harmful pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria. However, because our bodies are inhabited by trillions of mostly beneficial bacteria, virus and fungi, activation of our immune response is tightly regulated to distinguish between harmful and helpful microbes.</p><p>Our bacteria are spectacular companions diligently helping prime our immune system defenses to combat infections. A seminal study found that mice treated with antibiotics that eliminate bacteria in the gut exhibited an impaired immune response. These animals had low counts of virus-fighting white blood cells, weak antibody responses and poor production of a protein that is vital for <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1019378108" target="_blank">combating viral infection and modulating the immune response</a>.</p><p><a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0184976" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">In another study</a>, mice were fed <em>Lactobacillus</em> bacteria, commonly used as probiotic in fermented food. These microbes reduced the severity of influenza infection. The <em>Lactobacillus</em>-treated mice did not lose weight and had only mild lung damage compared with untreated mice. Similarly, others have found that treatment of mice with <em>Lactobacillus</em> protects against different <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/srep04638" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">subtypes of</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-17487-8" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">influenza</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1008072" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">virus</a> and human respiratory syncytial virus – the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-39602-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">major cause of viral bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children</a>.</p>Chronic Disease and Microbes
<p>Patients with chronic illnesses including Type 2 diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease exhibit a hyperactive immune system that fails to recognize a harmless stimulus and is linked to an altered gut microbiome.</p><p>In these chronic diseases, the gut microbiome lacks bacteria that activate <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1198469" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">immune cells</a> that block the response against harmless bacteria in our guts. Such alteration of the gut microbiome is also observed in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1002601107" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">babies delivered by cesarean section</a>, individuals consuming a poor <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/nature12820" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">diet</a> and the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/nature11053" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">elderly</a>.</p><p>In the U.S., 117 million individuals – about half the adult population – <a href="https://health.gov/our-work/food-nutrition/2015-2020-dietary-guidelines/guidelines/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">suffer from Type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease or a combination of them</a>. That suggests that half of American adults carry a faulty microbiome army.</p><p>Research in my laboratory focuses on identifying gut bacteria that are critical for creating a balanced immune system, which fights life-threatening bacterial and viral infections, while tolerating the beneficial bacteria in and on us.</p><p>Given that diet affects the diversity of bacteria in the gut, <a href="https://www.umassmed.edu/nutrition/melody-trial-info/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">my lab studies show how diet can be used</a> as a therapy for chronic diseases. Using different foods, people can shift their gut microbiome to one that boosts a healthy immune response.</p><p>A fraction of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 disease, develop severe complications that require hospitalization in intensive care units. What do many of those patients have in common? <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6912e2.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Old age</a> and chronic diet-related diseases like obesity, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.</p><p><a href="http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jada.2008.12.019" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Black and Latinx people are disproportionately affected by obesity, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease</a>, all of which are linked to poor nutrition. Thus, it is not a coincidence that <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6933e1.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">these groups have suffered more deaths from COVID-19</a> compared with whites. This is the case not only in the U.S. but also <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/blacks-in-britain-are-four-times-as-likely-to-die-of-coronavirus-as-whites-data-show/2020/05/07/2dc76710-9067-11ea-9322-a29e75effc93_story.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">in Britain</a>.</p>Discovering Microbes That Predict COVID-19 Severity
<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has inspired me to shift my research and explore the role of the gut microbiome in the overly aggressive immune response against SARS-CoV-2 infection.</p><p>My colleagues and I have hypothesized that critically ill SARS-CoV-2 patients with conditions like obesity, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease exhibit an altered gut microbiome that aggravates <a href="https://theconversation.com/exercise-may-help-reduce-risk-of-deadly-covid-19-complication-ards-136922" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">acute respiratory distress syndrome</a>.</p><p>Acute respiratory distress syndrome, a life-threatening lung injury, in SARS-CoV-2 patients is thought to develop from a <a href="http://doi.org/10.1016/j.cytogfr.2020.05.003" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fatal overreaction of the immune response</a> called a <a href="https://theconversation.com/blocking-the-deadly-cytokine-storm-is-a-vital-weapon-for-treating-covid-19-137690" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">cytokine storm</a> <a href="http://doi.org/10.1016/S2213-2600(20)30216-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">that causes an uncontrolled flood</a> <a href="http://doi.org/10.1016/S2213-2600(20)30216-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">of immune cells into the lungs</a>. In these patients, their own uncontrolled inflammatory immune response, rather than the virus itself, causes the <a href="http://doi.org/10.1007/s00134-020-05991-x" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">severe lung injury and multiorgan failures</a> that lead to death.</p><p>Several studies <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trsl.2020.08.004" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">described in one recent review</a> have identified an altered gut microbiome in patients with COVID-19. However, identification of specific bacteria within the microbiome that could predict COVID-19 severity is lacking.</p><p>To address this question, my colleagues and I recruited COVID-19 hospitalized patients with severe and moderate symptoms. We collected stool and saliva samples to determine whether bacteria within the gut and oral microbiome could predict COVID-19 severity. The identification of microbiome markers that can predict the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 disease is key to help prioritize patients needing urgent treatment.</p><p><a href="https://doi.org/10.1101/2021.01.05.20249061" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">We demonstrated</a>, in a paper which has not yet been peer reviewed, that the composition of the gut microbiome is the strongest predictor of COVID-19 severity compared to patient's clinical characteristics commonly used to do so. Specifically, we identified that the presence of a bacterium in the stool – called <em>Enterococcus faecalis</em>– was a robust predictor of COVID-19 severity. Not surprisingly, <em>Enterococcus faecalis</em> has been associated with <a href="https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2011.05.035" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">chronic</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/S0002-9440(10)61172-8" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">inflammation</a>.</p><p><em>Enterococcus faecalis</em> collected from feces can be grown outside of the body in clinical laboratories. Thus, an <em>E. faecalis</em> test might be a cost-effective, rapid and relatively easy way to identify patients who are likely to require more supportive care and therapeutic interventions to improve their chances of survival.</p><p>But it is not yet clear from our research what is the contribution of the altered microbiome in the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. A recent study has shown that <a href="https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.12.11.416180" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers an imbalance in immune cells</a> called <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/imr.12170" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">T regulatory cells that are critical to immune balance</a>.</p><p>Bacteria from the gut microbiome are responsible for the <a href="https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.30916.001" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">proper activation</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1198469" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">of those T-regulatory</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/nri.2016.36" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">cells</a>. Thus, researchers like me need to take repeated patient stool, saliva and blood samples over a longer time frame to learn how the altered microbiome observed in COVID-19 patients can modulate COVID-19 disease severity, perhaps by altering the development of the T-regulatory cells.</p><p>As a Latina scientist investigating interactions between diet, microbiome and immunity, I must stress the importance of better policies to improve access to healthy foods, which lead to a healthier microbiome. It is also important to design culturally sensitive dietary interventions for Black and Latinx communities. While a good-quality diet might not prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection, it can treat the underlying conditions related to its severity.</p><p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ana-maldonado-contreras-1152969" target="_blank">Ana Maldonado-Contreras</a> is an assistant professor of Microbiology and Physiological Systems at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.</em></p><p><em>Disclosure statement: Ana Maldonado-Contreras receives funding from The Helmsley Charitable Trust and her work has been supported by the American Gastroenterological Association. She received The Charles A. King Trust Postdoctoral Research Fellowship. She is also member of the Diversity Committee of the American Gastroenterological Association.</em></p><p><em style="">Reposted with permission from <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-healthy-microbiome-builds-a-strong-immune-system-that-could-help-defeat-covid-19-145668" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="">The Conversation</a>. </em></p>Like many other plant-based foods and products, CBD oil is one dietary supplement where "organic" labels are very important to consumers. However, there are little to no regulations within the hemp industry when it comes to deeming a product as organic, which makes it increasingly difficult for shoppers to find the best CBD oil products available on the market.
Spruce
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjI3OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyOTM2NzgzOX0.axY0HjeqRctJsR_KmDLctzDpUBLBN-oNIdqaXDb4caQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="774be" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8379f35b1ca8a86d0e61b7d4bfc8b46e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="spruce organic cbd oil" data-width="710" data-height="959" /><p>As one of the best brands in the business, Spruce CBD is well-known for its potent CBD oils that feature many additional beneficial phytocannabinoids. This brand works with two family-owned, sustainably focused farms in the USA (one located in Kentucky and one in North Carolina) to create its organic, small product batches. The max potency Spruce CBD oil contains 2400mg of full-spectrum CBD extract, but the brand also offers a lower strength tincture with 750mg of CBD in total.</p>CBDistillery
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjkzNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMTU4OTM4Nn0.ypRdeDSBcE87slYrFfVrRwtJ2qGIK6FD5jBB4pndTMo/img.jpg?width=980" id="b473b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9930b53c9d58cb49774640a61c3e3e75" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="cbdistillery cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>All of the products from CBDistillery are <a href="https://ushempauthority.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Hemp Authority Certified</a>, and for good reason. The company only uses non-GMO and pesticide-free industrial hemp that's grown organically on Colorado farms. Its hemp oils are some of the most affordable CBD products on the market, yet they still maintain a high standard of quality. CBDistillery has a wide variety of CBD potencies across its product line (ranging from 500mg to 5000mg per bottle) and offers both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils to give customers a completely thc-free option.</p>FAB CBD
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NDIwOTEyMn0.MlTjz096FJ0ev_-soK7_Z-FeQeJczWoeh9Qi9SSkHsY/img.jpg?width=980" id="04b26" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="76aa4862f44603242e318982acea6646" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="fab cbd oil" data-width="800" data-height="800" /><p>For an organic CBD oil that has it all, FAB CBD offers plenty of variety for any type of consumer. All of its products are made with zero pesticides and extracted from organically grown Colorado industrial hemp. FAB CBD oil comes in five all-natural flavors (mint, vanilla, berry, citrus, and natural) and is also available in four strengths (300, 600, 1200, and 2400mg per bottle).</p>NuLeaf Naturals
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIxOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NzExNTgyMX0.D6qMGYllKTsVhEkQ-L_GzpDHVu60a-tJKcio7M1Ssmc/img.jpg?width=980" id="94e4a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3609a52479675730893a45a82a03c71d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="nuleaf naturals organic cbd oil" data-width="600" data-height="600" /><p>As an industry-leading brand, it comes as no surprise that NuLeaf Naturals sources its CBD extract from organic hemp plants grown on licensed farms in Colorado. The comany's CBD oils only contain two ingredients: USDA certified organic hemp seed oil and full spectrum hemp extract.</p><p>NuLeaf Naturals uses one proprietary CBD oil formula for all of its products, so you will get the same CBD potency in each tincture (60mg per mL), but can purchase different bottle sizes depending on how much you intend to use.</p>Charlotte's Web
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjk3NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzQ0NjM4N30.SaQ85SK10-MWjN3PwHo2RqpiUBdjhD0IRnHKTqKaU7Q/img.jpg?width=980" id="84700" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a2174067dcc0c4094be25b3472ce08c8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="charlottes web cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>Perhaps one of the most well-known brands in the CBD landscape, Charlotte's Web has been growing sustainable hemp plants for several years. The company is currently in the process of achieving official USDA Organic Certification, but it already practices organic and sustainable cultivation techniques to enhance the overall health of the soil and the hemp plants themselves, which creates some of the highest quality CBD extracts. Charlotte's Web offers CBD oils in a range of different concentration options, and some even come in a few flavor options such as chocolate mint, orange blossom, and lemon twist.</p>- Best CBD Oils of 2020: Reviews & Buying Guide - EcoWatch ›
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5 Best Probiotic Supplements for Better Gut Health
The best probiotics for a healthy digestive system, immune system, and overall health. Plus, how to choose the right supplement for you.
When it comes to gut health, there's a lot of information out there to... digest. It's hard to discuss the secrets to a healthy microbiome without mentioning probiotic supplements, but with so many options on the market, how do you know the best probiotic for you?
We're breaking down the ins and outs of probiotics, such as the best probiotic supplements available and what to look for in a high-quality probiotic, including the different strains, number of CFUs, and the benefits that these dietary supplements may have on your overall health.
Physician's Choice
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDc2MzYzNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3NjcxNDM1Mn0.JGcZxnP5Tw4J16ZVtne9iRAfTpM02IRjWRQZPBnNU6Y/img.jpg?width=980" id="63fe7" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="472e980ec92d56079b9e6e6d2878710d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="1280" data-height="960" />Physician's Choice
<p>We like that the Physician's Choice product is shelf-stable and includes an organic probiotic blend in addition to 60 billion CFUs and 10 probiotic strains. The prebiotics contains <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/dietary-fiber-foods-health-2055681209.html" target="_blank">gut-healthy fiber</a> that works in tandem with the microbes to foster a <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/microbiome-health-tips-2643937292.html" target="_blank">healthy microbiome</a>.<br></p><p>Shelf-stability is another important benefit, as many of the best probiotics require refrigeration. This makes Physician's Choice great for frequent travelers or anyone who prefers to keep their supplements somewhere other than the kitchen. </p><p>In addition, Physician's Choice makes vegan capsules that are soy-free, gluten-free, peanut-free, and preservative-free. Their supplements are also third-party lab-tested and made in the USA. <span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: initial;"><strong>Why Buy: </strong></span>Organic prebiotic blend; Shelf-stable; Third-party lab tested; Vegan<br></p><p><strong>Strength:</strong> 60 billion CFU and 10 probiotic strains</p>Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Once Daily Women’s Probiotics
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDc2MzYzOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNTU5OTUxOH0.gsTB8DkiwaVOjSbgG-xrmqtkHkCQyElJ8mpZRBxaAMI/img.jpg?width=980" id="5f5bb" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="208fbfb3a62c6dc2f3f2b7f4b4478acd" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="522" data-height="917" />Amazon
<p>Like Physician's Choice, Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women are also shelf-stable and contain an organic prebiotic fiber blend. We like that this product boasts a whopping 16 probiotic strains, including <em>Lactobacillus rhamnosus</em>. </p><p>This product is specifically made for women to support immune and vaginal health, and provide relief from gastrointestinal issues like constipation, bloating, and IBS. Plus, their once-daily capsules are free of dairy, gluten, and soy. The blend was formulated by microbiome expert Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist and Fellow at the American College of Nutrition.</p><p><strong>Why Buy:</strong> Organic prebiotic fiber blend; Specially formulated for women's health; Shelf-stable; Gluten-, soy- and dairy-free</p><p><strong>Strength:</strong> 50 billion CFU and 16 probiotic strains</p>Culturelle Daily Probiotic
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDc2MzY0MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MzczNjUwNH0.8KhyeBqGsbDE7HCv9b_GMMd1_gtQMd8to-h-OpKXSQo/img.jpg?width=980" id="f1173" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4004fa77d220d1ad78561f94c4aa12d9" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="522" data-height="539" />Amazon
<p>Culturelle Daily Probiotics are great for the budget-conscious or new probiotic user. This more affordable option offers 10 billion CFUs of a single strain: <em>Lactobacillus rhamnosus</em>. <em>L. rhamnousus</em> is the most-studied probiotic strain and is clinically proven to <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/best-digestive-enzymes-2649434284.html" target="_blank">aid digestion</a>. This lower-dose probiotic supplement is great for kids and can help settle short-term digestive issues, especially related to travel.</p><p>If you're concerned about potential side effects like gas and bloating, this Culturelle product is an excellent place to start. </p><p><strong>Why Buy:</strong> Free of gluten, milk, soy, wheat, and preservatives </p><p><strong>Strength:</strong> 10 billion CFUs and 1 probiotic strain (<em>Lactobacillus rhamnosus</em>)</p>NewRhythm Probiotics
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDc2MzY0My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MjY5MzY3MX0.5rzBeirqKi3oUNn1a05VJdXaGGn6h7rMnfUw93Y24gA/img.jpg?width=980" id="cf9a9" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a9c04a5cbf7e4c40f78ea891092536c2" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="1462" data-height="1292" />Amazon
<p>The time-release feature in NewRhythm Probiotics ensures that the vegetarian capsules make it all the way to your digestive tract before releasing the live microorganisms. In addition, this shelf-stable product is made in the USA in a GMP-Certified facility and tested by third-party labs for quality and effectiveness.</p><p>While the price seems like an absolute steal compared to the other probiotics in our list, it's important to note that one dose is two capsules. Nevertheless, NewRhythm probiotics are a fantastic affordable option that still packs a serious punch with 50 billion CFUs and 20 probiotic strains.</p><p><strong>Unique features: </strong>Shelf-stable; non-GMO; third-party lab-tested and made in the USA; free of gluten, sugar, soy, preservatives, and peanuts; 100% money-back satisfaction guarantee within 30 days</p><p><span></span><strong>Strength: </strong>50 billion CFUs and 20 probiotic strains </p><p><span></span><strong>Price:</strong> $14.44 for 60 capsules</p>Nutrition Essentials Probiotic for Women and Men
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDc2MzY0NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMTY5MjU4NH0.xX6M8P5bRtQRFHczRijOlBSTjcmGyhL35UVDEN4-a6E/img.jpg?width=980" id="93aa1" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d39275efc00083820a210ef3a647dda9" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="350" data-height="350" />Amazon
<p>The Nutrition Essentials probiotic offers the most CFUs per dose, at a staggering 900 billion. But what really sets this brand apart is the company's commitment to satisfaction. They offer a full money-back guarantee if you don't see results. Nutrition Essentials also guarantees that their tablets contain potent probiotic strains until expiration. While it can be hard to know what to believe in probiotic product labels, guarantees like this help give some peace of mind.</p><p><strong>Why Buy: </strong>Made in the USA; Gluten-, dairy-, and preservative-free; Strains are guaranteed potent until the expiration date</p><p><span></span><strong>Strength:</strong> 900 billion CFUs and 1 strain (<a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/lactobacillus-acidophilus-2453903269.html" target="_blank"><em>Lactobacillus acidophilus</em></a>)</p>- The 19 Best Foods to Improve Digestion - EcoWatch ›
- Probiotics 101: Everything You Need to Know - EcoWatch ›
- When's the Best Time to Consume Probiotics? - EcoWatch ›
Trending
Historically, it hasn't always been possible to grow fresh vegetables throughout the year.
1. Nutrient Dense
<p>Kimchi is packed with nutrients while being low in calories.</p><p>On its own, Chinese cabbage — one of the main ingredients in kimchi — boasts vitamins A and C, at least 10 different minerals, and over 34 amino acids.</p><p>Since kimchi varies widely in ingredients, its exact nutritional profile differs between batches and brands. All the same, a 1-cup (150-gram) serving contains approximately.</p><ul><li><strong>Calories:</strong> 23</li><li><strong>Carbs:</strong> 4 grams</li><li><strong>Protein:</strong> 2 grams</li><li><strong>Fat:</strong> less than 1 gram</li><li><strong>Fiber:</strong> 2 grams</li><li><strong>Sodium:</strong> 747 mg</li><li><strong>Vitamin B6:</strong> 19% of the Daily Value (DV)</li><li><strong>Vitamin C:</strong> 22% of the DV</li><li><strong>Vitamin K:</strong> 55% of the DV</li><li><strong>Folate:</strong> 20% of the DV</li><li><strong>Iron:</strong> 21% of the DV</li><li><strong>Niacin:</strong> 10% of the DV</li><li><strong>Riboflavin:</strong> 24% of the DV</li></ul><p>Many green vegetables are good sources of nutrients like vitamin K and riboflavin. Because kimchi often comprises several green veggies, such as <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-cabbage" target="_blank">cabbage</a>, celery, and spinach, it's typically a great source of these nutrients.</p><p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-vitamin-k" target="_blank">Vitamin K</a> plays an important role in many bodily functions, including bone metabolism and blood clotting, while riboflavin helps regulate energy production, cellular growth, and metabolism.</p><p>What's more, the fermentation process may develop additional nutrients that are more easily absorbed by your body.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p>Kimchi has an excellent nutritional profile. The dish is low in calories but packed with nutrients like iron, folate, and vitamins B6 and K.</p>2. Contains Probiotics
<p>The lacto-fermentation process that kimchi undergoes makes it particularly unique. Fermented foods not only have an extended shelf life but also an enhanced taste and aroma.</p><p>Fermentation occurs when a starch or sugar is converted into an alcohol or acid by organisms like yeast, mold, or bacteria.</p><p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lacto-fermentation" target="_blank">Lacto-fermentation</a> uses the bacterium <em>Lactobacillus</em> to break sugars down into lactic acid, which gives kimchi its characteristic sourness.</p><p>When taken as a supplement, This bacterium itself may have several benefits, including treating conditions like hayfever and certain types of diarrhea.</p><p>Fermentation also creates an environment that allows other friendly bacteria to thrive and multiply. These include <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-super-healthy-probiotic-foods" target="_blank">probiotics</a>, which are live microorganisms that offer health benefits when consumed in large amounts.</p><p>In fact, they're linked to protection from or improvements in several conditions, including:</p><ul><li>certain types of <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/cancer">cancer</a></li><li>the common cold</li><li>constipation</li><li>gastrointestinal health<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30197628" target="_blank"></a></li><li>heart health </li><li><a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/mental-health" rel="noopener noreferrer">mental health</a><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25448230" target="_blank"></a></li><li>skin conditions<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28802302" target="_blank"></a></li></ul><p>Keep in mind that many of these findings are related to high-dose probiotic supplements and not the amounts found in a normal serving of kimchi.</p><p>The probiotics in kimchi are believed to be responsible for many of its benefits. Nonetheless, more research is needed on the specific effects of probiotics from fermented foods.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>Fermented foods like kimchi offer probiotics, which may help prevent and treat several conditions.</p>3. May Strengthen Your Immune System
<p>The <em>Lactobacillus</em> bacterium in kimchi may <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/foods-that-boost-the-immune-system" target="_blank">boost your immune health</a>.</p><p>In a study in mice, those injected with <em>Lactobacillus</em> <em>plantarum</em> — a specific strain that's common in kimchi and other fermented foods — had lower levels of TNF alpha, an inflammatory marker, than the control group.</p><p>Because TNF alpha levels are often elevated during infection and disease, a decrease indicates that the immune system is working efficiently.</p><p>A test-tube study that isolated <em>Lactobacillus plantarum</em> from kimchi likewise demonstrated that this bacterium has immune-enhancing effects.</p><p>Though these results are promising, human research is needed.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>A specific strain of <em>Lactobacillus</em> found in kimchi may boost your immune system, though further research is necessary.</p>4. May Reduce Inflammation
<p>Probiotics and active compounds in kimchi and other fermented foods may help fight inflammation.</p><p>For example, a mouse study revealed that HDMPPA, one of the principal compounds in kimchi, improved blood vessel health by <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-anti-inflammatory-foods" target="_blank">suppressing inflammation</a>.</p><p>In another mouse study, a kimchi extract of 91 mg per pound of body weight (200 mg per kg) given daily for 2 weeks lowered levels of inflammation-related enzymes.</p><p>Meanwhile, a test-tube study confirmed that HDMPPA displays anti-inflammatory properties by blocking and suppressing the release of <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-foods-that-cause-inflammation" target="_blank">inflammatory compounds</a>.</p><p>However, human studies are lacking.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>HDMPPA, an active compound in kimchi, may play a large role in reducing inflammation.</p>5. May Slow Aging
<p>Chronic inflammation is not only associated with numerous illnesses, but it also accelerates the aging process.</p><p>Yet, kimchi possibly prolongs cell life by <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-habits-linked-to-a-long-life" target="_blank">slowing this process</a>.</p><p>In a test-tube study, human cells treated with kimchi demonstrated an increase in viability, which measures overall cell health — and showed an extended lifespan regardless of their age.</p><p>Still, overall research is lacking. Many more studies are needed before kimchi can be recommended as an <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/anti-aging-foods" target="_blank">anti-aging treatment</a>.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>A test-tube study indicates that kimchi may slow the aging process, though more research is necessary.</p>6. May Prevent Yeast Infections
<p>Kimchi's probiotics and healthy bacteria may help <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/5-diet-tips-against-candida" target="_blank">prevent yeast infections</a>.</p><p>Vaginal yeast infections occur when the <em>Candida</em> fungus, which is normally harmless, multiplies rapidly inside the vagina. Over 1.4 million women in the United States are treated for this condition each year.</p><p>As this fungus may be developing resistance to antibiotics, many researchers are looking for natural treatments.</p><p>Test-tube and animal studies suggest that certain strains of <em>Lactobacillus</em> fight <em>Candida</em>. One test-tube study even found that multiple strains isolated from kimchi displayed antimicrobial activity against this fungus.</p><p>Regardless, further research is necessary.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p>Probiotic-rich foods like kimchi may help prevent yeast infections, though research is in the early stages.</p>7. May Aid Weight Loss
<p>Fresh and fermented kimchi are both low in calories and may boost <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/weight-loss" target="_blank">weight loss.</a><span></span></p><p>A 4-week study in 22 people with excess weight found that eating fresh or fermented kimchi helped reduce body weight, body mass index (BMI), and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-ways-to-burn-fat" target="_blank">body fat</a>. Additionally, the fermented variety decreased blood sugar levels.</p><p>Keep in mind that those who ate fermented kimchi displayed significantly greater improvements in blood pressure and body fat percentage than those who ate the fresh dish.</p><p>It's unclear which properties of kimchi are responsible for its weight loss effects — though its low calorie count, <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/22-high-fiber-foods" target="_blank">high fiber content</a>, and probiotics could all play a role.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>Though the specific mechanism isn't known, kimchi may help reduce body weight, body fat, and even blood pressure and blood sugar levels.</p>8. May Support Heart Health
<p>Research indicates that kimchi may reduce your risk of <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/heart-disease" rel="noopener noreferrer">heart disease</a>.</p><p>This may be due to its anti-inflammatory properties, as recent evidence suggests that inflammation may be an underlying cause of heart disease.</p><p>In an 8-week study in mice fed a high cholesterol diet, fat levels in the blood and liver were lower in those given kimchi extract than in the control group. In addition, the kimchi extract appeared to suppress fat growth.</p><p>This is important because the accumulation of fat in these areas may contribute to <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/heart-healthy-foods" target="_blank">heart disease</a>.</p><p>Meanwhile, a weeklong study in 100 people found that eating 0.5–7.5 ounces (15–210 grams) of kimchi daily significantly decreased blood sugar, <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-foods-that-lower-cholesterol-levels" target="_blank">total cholesterol</a>, and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels — all of which are risk factors for heart disease.</p><p>All the same, more human research is needed.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>Kimchi may lower your risk of heart disease by reducing inflammation, suppressing fat growth, and decreasing cholesterol levels.</p>9. Easy to Make at Home
<p>Though preparing fermented foods may seem like a daunting task, making kimchi at home is fairly simple if you adhere to the following steps:</p><ol><li>Gather ingredients of your choice, such as cabbage and other fresh vegetables like carrot, radish, and onion, plus ginger, garlic, sugar, salt, rice flour, chili oil, chili powder or pepper flakes, fish sauce, and saeujeot (fermented shrimp).</li><li>Cut and wash the fresh vegetables alongside the ginger and garlic.</li><li>Spread salt in between the layers of cabbage leaves and let it sit for 2–3 hours. Turn the cabbage every 30 minutes to evenly distribute the salt. Use a ratio of 1/2 cup (72 grams) of salt to every 6 pounds (2.7 kg) of cabbage.</li><li>To remove the excess salt, rinse the cabbage with water and drain in a colander or strainer.</li><li>Mix the rice flour, sugar, <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-ginger" target="_blank">ginger</a>, garlic, chili oil, pepper flakes, fish sauce, and saeujeot into a paste, adding water if necessary. You can use more or less of these ingredients depending on how strong you want your kimchi to taste.</li><li>Toss the fresh vegetables, including the cabbage, into the paste until all of the veggies have been fully coated.</li><li>Pack the mixture into a large container or jar for storage, making sure to seal it properly.</li><li>Let the kimchi ferment for at least 3 days at room temperature or up to 3 weeks at 39 F (4 C).</li></ol><p>To make a version that's suitable for vegetarians and vegans, simply leave out the fish sauce and saeujeot.</p><p>If you prefer fresh over fermented kimchi, just stop after step 6.</p><p>If you choose fermentation, you'll know that it's ready to eat once it starts to smell and taste sour — or when small bubbles begin to move through the jar.</p><p>After fermentation, you can refrigerate your kimchi for up to 1 year. It will continue to ferment but at a slower rate due to the cool temperature.</p><p>Bubbling, bulging, a sour taste, and a softening of the cabbage are all perfectly normal for kimchi. However, if you notice a foul odor or any <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-moldy-food-dangerous" target="_blank">signs of mold</a>, such as a white film atop the food, your dish has spoiled and should be thrown out.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>Kimchi can be made at home using a few simple steps. Typically, it needs to ferment 3–21 days depending on the surrounding temperature.</p>Does kimchi have any downsides?
<p>In general, the biggest safety concern with kimchi is food poisoning.</p><p>Recently, this dish has been linked to <em>E. coli</em> and norovirus outbreaks.</p><p>Even though fermented foods don't typically carry foodborne pathogens, kimchi's ingredients and the adaptability of pathogens means that it's still vulnerable to <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-that-cause-food-poisoning" target="_blank">foodborne illnesses</a>.</p><p>As such, people with compromised immune systems may want to practice caution with kimchi.</p><p>Although people with high blood pressure may have concerns about this dish's <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-sodium" target="_blank">high sodium content</a>, a study in 114 people with this condition showed no significant relationship between kimchi intake and high blood pressure.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>Kimchi has very few risks. Nonetheless, this dish has been tied to outbreaks of food poisoning, so people with compromised immune systems may want to use extra caution.</p>The Bottom Line
<p>Kimchi is a sour Korean dish often made from cabbage and other vegetables. Because it's a <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-fermented-foods" target="_blank">fermented food</a>, it boasts numerous probiotics.</p><p>These healthy microorganisms may give kimchi several health benefits. It may help regulate your immune system, promote <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-to-lose-weight-as-fast-as-possible" target="_blank">weight loss</a>, fight inflammation, and even slow the aging process.</p><p>If you enjoy cooking, you can even make kimchi at home.</p><p><em>Reposted with permission from </em><a href="https://www.healthline.com/" target="_blank"><em>Healthline</em></a><em>. For detailed source information, please view the original article on </em><em><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-kimchi#The-bottom-line" target="_blank">Healthline</a></em><em>.</em></p>- 9 Dishes Chefs Eat When They're Sick - EcoWatch ›
- When's the Best Time to Consume Probiotics? - EcoWatch ›
- 8 Impressive Benefits of Purple Cabbage - EcoWatch ›
Lucy Lambriex / DigitalVision / Getty Images
By Michelle Kretzer
Want to get healthier this year? Almost half of Americans resolve to. But you don't have to drastically slash your calorie intake or take up residence at the gym to improve your health. Since we power our bodies through our digestive system, a healthy gut equals a healthy everything else.
Now compelling new research has found these bacteria may also be beneficial for your brain and mental health.
By Dr. Ruairi Robertson
Did you know that there are roughly 40 trillion bacteria living in and on you?
By Dr. Mary Jane Brown
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be consumed through fermented foods or supplements (1).
More and more studies show that the balance or imbalance of bacteria in your digestive system is linked to overall health and disease.
Probiotics promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria and have been linked to a wide range of health benefits.
These include benefits for weight loss, digestive health, immune function and more (2, 3).
This is an overview of the key health benefits linked to probiotics.
1. Probiotics Help Balance the Friendly Bacteria in Your Digestive System
Probiotics include "good" bacteria. These are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed (1).
These benefits are thought to result from the ability of probiotics to restore the natural balance of gut bacteria (4).
An imbalance means there are too many bad bacteria and not enough good bacteria. It can happen due to illness, medication such as antibiotics, poor diet and more.
Consequences can include digestive issues, allergies, mental health problems, obesity and more (5).
Probiotics are usually found in fermented foods or taken as supplements. What's more, they appear to be safe for most people.
Bottom Line: Probiotics are live microorganisms. When taken in sufficient amounts, they can help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria. As a result, health benefits may follow.
2. Probiotics Can Help Prevent and Treat Diarrhea
Probiotics are widely known for their ability to prevent diarrhea or reduce its severity.
Diarrhea is a common side effect of taking antibiotics. It occurs because antibiotics can negatively affect the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut (6).
Several studies suggest probiotic use is associated with a reduced risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (7, 8, 9).
In one study, researchers found that taking probiotics reduced antibiotic-associated diarrhea by 42 percent (10).
Probiotics can also help with other forms of diarrhea not associated with antibiotics.
A large review of 35 studies found certain strains of probiotics can reduce the duration of infectious diarrhea by an average of 25 hours (11).
Probiotics reduced the risk of travelers' diarrhea by 8 percent. They also lowered the risk of diarrhea from other causes by 57 percent in children and 26 percent in adults (12).
Effectiveness varies, depending on the type and dose of the probiotic taken (13).
Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei and the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii are most commonly associated with a reduced risk of diarrhea (9, 12).
Bottom Line: Probiotics can reduce the risk and severity of diarrhea from a number of different causes.
3. Probiotic Supplements Improve Some Mental Health Conditions
An increasing number of studies link gut health to mood and mental health (14).
Both animal and human studies find that probiotic supplements can improve some mental health disorders (15).
A review of 15 human studies found supplementing with Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains for 1–2 months can improve anxiety, depression, autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder and memory (15).
One study followed 70 chemical workers for six weeks. Those who consumed 100 grams of probiotic yogurt per day or took a daily probiotic capsule experienced benefits for general health, depression, anxiety and stress (16).
Benefits were also seen in a study of 40 patients with depression.
Taking probiotic supplements for eight weeks decreased depression levels and reduced levels of hormones such as insulin and C-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation), compared to people who did not take a probiotic (17).
Bottom Line: Research shows taking probiotics may help improve symptoms of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, stress and memory, among others.
4. Certain Probiotic Strains Can Help Keep Your Heart Healthy
Probiotics may help keep your heart healthy by lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol and blood pressure.
Certain lactic acid-producing bacteria may reduce cholesterol by breaking down bile in the gut (18).
Bile, a naturally occurring fluid mostly made of cholesterol, helps digestion.
By breaking down bile, probiotics can prevent it from being reabsorbed in the gut, where it can enter the blood as cholesterol (19).
A review of five studies found that eating a probiotic yogurt for 2–8 weeks reduced total cholesterol by 4 percent and LDL cholesterol by 5 percent (20).
Another study conducted over 6 months found no changes to total or LDL cholesterol. However, they did find a small increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol (21).
Consuming probiotics may also lower blood pressure. A review of 9 studies found that probiotic supplements reduce blood pressure, but only modestly (22).
In order to experience any benefits related to blood pressure, supplementation had to exceed eight weeks and 10 million colony-forming units (CFUs) daily (22).
Bottom Line: Probiotics may help protect the heart by reducing "bad" LDL cholesterol levels and modestly lowering blood pressure.
5. Probiotics May Reduce the Severity of Certain Allergies and Eczema
Certain probiotic strains may reduce the severity of eczema in children and infants.
One study found eczema symptoms improved for infants fed probiotic-supplemented milk, compared to infants fed milk without probiotics (23).
Another study followed children of women who took probiotics during pregnancy. Those children had an 83 percent lower risk of developing eczema in the first two years of life (24).
However, the link between probiotics and reduced eczema severity is still weak and more research needs to be done (25, 26).
Some probiotics may also reduce inflammatory responses in people with milk or dairy allergies. However, the evidence is weak and further studies are needed (27).
Bottom Line: Probiotics may reduce the risk and severity of certain allergies, such as eczema in infants. However, more research is needed.
6. Probiotics Can Help Reduce Symptoms of Certain Digestive Disorders
Over one million people in the U.S. suffer from inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease (28).
Certain types of probiotics from the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains have improved symptoms in people with mild ulcerative colitis (29).
Surprisingly, one study found that supplementing with the probiotic E. coli Nissle was just as effective as drugs in maintaining remission in people with ulcerative colitis (30).
However, probiotics appear to have little effect on symptoms of Crohn's disease (31).
Nevertheless, probiotics may have benefits for other bowel disorders. Early research suggests they may help with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (32).
They have also been shown to reduce the risk of severe necrotizing enterocolitis by 50 percent. This is a fatal bowel condition that occurs in premature infants (33).
Bottom Line: Probiotics may help reduce the symptoms of bowel disorders like ulcerative colitis, IBS and necrotizing enterocolitis.
7. Probiotics May Help Boost Your Immune System
Probiotics may help give your immune system a boost and inhibit the growth of harmful gut bacteria (34).
6 Ways to Boost Your Immune System https://t.co/endyEnIZug @goodhealth @nytimeshealth— EcoWatch (@EcoWatch)1456964112.0
Also, some probiotics have been shown to promote the production of natural antibodies in the body. They may also boost immune cells like the IgA-producing cells, T lymphocytes and natural killer cells (35, 36).
A large review found that taking probiotics reduced the likelihood and duration of respiratory infections. However, the quality of the evidence was low (37).
Another study including more than 570 children found that taking Lactobacillus GG reduced the frequency and severity of respiratory infections by 17 percent (38).
The probiotic Lactobacillus crispatus has also been shown to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women by 50 percent (39).
Bottom Line: Probiotics may help boost your immune system and protect against infections.
8. Probiotics May Help You Lose Weight and Belly Fat
Probiotics may help with weight loss through a number of different mechanisms (40).
For example, some probiotics prevent the re-absorption of dietary fat in the intestine.
The fat is then excreted through feces rather than stored in the body (41, 42).
Probiotics may also help you feel fuller for longer, burn more calories and store less fat. This is partly caused by increasing levels of certain hormones, such as GLP-1 (43,44).
They may also help with weight loss directly. In one study, dieting women who took lactobacillus rhamnosus for three months lost 50 percent more weight than women who didn't take a probiotic (45).
Another study of 210 people found taking even low doses of Lactobacillus gasseri for 12 weeks resulted in an 8.5 percent reduction of belly fat (46).
However, it's important to be aware that not all probiotics aid in weight loss.
Surprisingly, some studies found certain probiotics, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, can even lead to weight gain (47).
More studies are needed to clarify the link between probiotics and weight (48).
Bottom Line: Certain probiotics may help you lose weight and belly fat. However, other strains have been linked to weight gain.
The Best Way to Get the Benefits of Probiotics
You can get probiotics from a variety of foods or supplements.
Live probiotic cultures are often found in fermented dairy products such as yogurts and milk drinks. Fermented foods like pickled vegetables, tempeh, miso, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut and soy products may also contain some lactic acid bacteria.
You can also take probiotics as tablets, capsules and powders that contain the bacteria in dried form.
However, be aware that some probiotics can be destroyed by stomach acid before they even reach the gut—meaning that you get none of the intended benefits.
If you want to experience any of the health benefits discussed above, it's important that you consume adequate amounts.
Most of the studies showing benefits used dosages of 1 billion to 100 billion live organisms or colony-forming units (CFU) per day.
Reposted with permission from our media associate Authority Nutrition.
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By Katie Medlock
The importance of good gut health has been receiving more attention lately and for good reasons. By colonizing our guts with "good" bacteria, we can help improve our digestion, enhance our immune system, reduce our risk for contracting disease and even lose weight. An especially important way of achieving these health benefits is including probiotic-rich foods into our diet.
Perhaps the number one food associated with probiotics is yogurt, but vegans choose to reject dairy from their diets for health, environmental and ethical reasons. Plant-based eaters do not have to fear, however, because there are many foods which naturally contain health-boosting microorganisms.
Here are just a few delicious sources of vegan probiotics:
Miso
Anyone who has dined at a Japanese restaurant may be familiar with miso soup, a broth containing the fermented soy bean paste that is full of health bacteria for our gut microbiomes. The process of fermentation lends the paste its probiotic qualities and can be enjoyed in many different ways beyond miso soup, including dips and sauces. Those who avoid soy can also reap the benefits through miso made from brown rice, barley or chickpeas.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
Tempeh
Tempeh is a probiotic-rich food that can be enjoyed as a main dish. The Indonesian-based patty is made from fermented, whole soy beans and has a distinct nutty flavor. Some preferred ways of preparing tempeh are in smokey strips (for any bacon lovers out there), as tempeh reuben sandwiches, stir-frys or in a breakfast scramble with tons of veggies. Companies have even started creating a hemp-based tempeh and chickpea-based tempeh can be made at home by adventurous chefs.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
Sauerkraut
This classic Eastern European ingredient is packed with probiotics and can be easily made at home through a lactic acid fermentation process. If you prefer store-bought, look for a raw version, as pasteurization can kill off healthy bacteria. Combine sauerkraut with seasoned tempeh and sourdough bread for a probiotic powerhouse meal!
Photo credit: Thinkstock
Kimchi
Similar to sauerkraut, kimchi is a spicy Korean dish featuring fermented cabbage. The addition of onions, garlic and spicy hot pepper create a fiery combo that is good for stuffed-up sinuses, as well as gut health. Be sure to look out for fish ingredients in store-bought kimchi, or give it a whirl whipping it up in your own kitchen.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
Kombucha
This fermented tea beverage has become a super-healthy trend lately, leading to it popping up in supermarkets in cities big and small. Kombucha has been brewed for hundreds of years, but now its popularity has sprung a variety of creative flavor combinations to entice both kids and adults. Brewing kombucha at home is a cinch with the right equipment, including a SCOBY (symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast), tea and sugar. This health-promoting beverage is a great alternative to juice or your morning tea.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
Vegan Yogurts and Kefir
Yogurt can be both dairy-free and packed with probiotic properties, and the variety of vegan yogurts at grocery stores has exploded over the years. Many coconut-based, soy-based, hemp-based and almond-based yogurts contain the same healthy bacteria as their cow's milk counterparts, and you can even make your own plant-based yogurt at home! Kefir, typically made from fermented animal milk, has also been veganized and can be whipped up at home.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
Olives
You might be surprised to learn that olives, fermented and then cured with brine, have a serious probiotic potential. The curing process allows these healthy cultures to multiply, making these salty bites a gut-healthy garnish for your salads, pizzas and pastas.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
Sourdough Bread
An easy swap to boost your meal's probiotic punch is opting for sourdough bread instead of regular old wheat. This hearty bread is made with a fermentation process, using sourdough starter, and takes longer than other varieties to bake. The tart taste adds zing to any sandwich or morning avocado toast.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
Sour Pickles
Another sandwich topper or salty side dish containing health-promoting bacteria is sour pickles. Made using lacto-fermentation, good bacteria are allowed to flourish in these crunchy cucumber morsels. Like olives, keep an eye on salt intake and, like most other foods on this list, you can make your own pickles easily at home.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
This article was reposted with permission from our media associate Care2.
"Dr. Hyman, can you tell me more about probiotics? Can supplementing with them really help reduce belly bloat and IBS symptoms? How do you know which ones are good and which ones are a waste of money?"
Well—to be frank, our poop and all the bugs that live in there are the great new frontier in medicine. Who knew!? The health of the 100 trillion bugs in your gut (which outnumber you 10 to 1) is one of the biggest things that impacts your health. Is it as simple as just taking a few probiotics or eating some yogurt? Not really—we have to learn how to tend the gut flora of our inner gardens by being selective of what we eat and how we live; feeding the good bugs and avoiding gut—busting drugs and habits—like eating too much sugar and starch, or consuming too much alcohol, or not managing our stress (yes, your gut bacteria are eavesdropping on your thoughts).
But What About Probiotics?
This is a huge area of research and really, we are at the infancy of understanding how to create and use probiotics. Probiotics are popping up everywhere! They're in yogurt commercials and sold at your pharmacy and grocery store. Ever since gut health has come to the forefront, probiotics have become a popular topic. So, do they really help?
Well, in order to understand probiotics, we need to understand the gut. I see so many patients in my office every week who are suffering from uncomfortable and disabling symptoms like bloating, cramps, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain. Often these are signs of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which has become a very real problem. Did you know that 60 million people (20 percent of Americans) have an irritable bowel? And even if you don't have gut symptoms, so many other diseases are affected by the health of your gut flora—including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, autoimmune disease, allergic diseases like asthma and eczema and even depression, ADD and autism!
What causes an irritable bowel? The biggest causes are bad bugs growing in there where they shouldn't, a leaky gut and food sensitivities—all of which drive inflammation and irritation.
Bad bugs grow when we eat a processed diet that's high in sugar and starch; don't eat enough of the right fiber and prebiotics; or take too many gut-busting drugs (like antibiotics, acid blockers for reflux, anti-inflammatories, hormones and more). Think of your gut as an inner garden; just with any garden—when you let the weeds take over, you get into trouble.
Leaky gut happens when your gut lining breaks down. This can be caused by any of number of things, including: stress; too many antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs (like aspirin or Advil); using steroids to treat symptoms; intestinal infections; consuming a low-fiber, high-sugar diet and too much alcohol; and more. When the gut lining breaks down, your immune system is exposed to foreign particles from food and bacteria and other microbes. This triggers and activates an immune response, irritating your gut and creating havoc, which leads to an irritable bowel, an irritable brain and other system-wide problems (including allergies, arthritis, autoimmunity, mood disorders).
Basically, the microbial ecosystem in the gut has to be healthy for you to be healthy. When your gut bacteria are out of balance, it makes you sick. Among all that gut bacteria, there are good guys, bad guys and very bad guys. When you have too many bad guys, and not enough good guys, this is a problem. That's where probiotics come in.
Along with other gut-healing nutrients, a low-glycemic, whole foods diet filled with healthy proteins, fats and fiber, and probiotics can improve the health of your gut significantly. Why? Because probiotics help to populate your gut with good bacteria.
There are lots on the market to choose from. I recommend taking very high-potency probiotics (look for at least 25 to 50 billion live CFU's from a variety of strains). Start slowly and observe how the probiotics affect your gut. When you first start taking probiotics, you might notice some uncomfortable symptoms like gas and bloating, but if the symptoms persist for more than a few days, you may need to delay probiotics until their gut is more intact. For example, if you're dealing with what's called Small Intestinal Bacteria Overgrowth (SIBO), you might not be able to tolerate probiotics until your gut is in a better place.
I don't normally recommend actual products but quality varies greatly, so here is a list of my favorite brands. One product I like is VSL#3—a super high potency probiotic. Each dose contains 450 billion live beneficial bacteria which colonize the GI tract with optimal amounts and types of bacteria to protect against inflammation and support immunity and healthy digestive function. You will need to start slowly on this and build up.
I typically prefer pills or powder form because it's the easiest and most effective way to get your daily probiotics in. In cases where someone is dealing with yeast overgrowth or a histamine intolerance and wants to avoid fermented foods, a probiotic supplement might be the best choice.
Another way to get probiotics naturally is to eat fermented foods. If you can tolerate them, probiotic-rich foods like kimchi, kombucha, miso or sauerkraut can be very beneficial. Sometimes, you can also eat whole fat, organic or grass-fed yogurt, if you are not allergic to dairy. Try unsweetened sheep's milk or goat's milk yogurt. These foods can help your gut flora get and stay healthy.
The best way to determine if probiotics work for you and which ones to choose is to work with a Functional Medicine practitioner. Everyone is different, and for some people, deeper gut healing might be required before you start taking probiotics. To tend your inner garden, you might need to do some weeding, seeding and feeding—a process that Functional Medicine doctors follow: first you weed to get rid of the bad bugs using herbs or medications; then you seed the gut lining with good bugs; and then you feed the good bugs with prebiotic foods and fibers to keep everything healthy.
How to Re-Balance Your Gut Flora Today
Probiotics can be very beneficial, but they are just part of the puzzle. Here are my steps to re-balancing your gut flora:
1. Eat a whole foods diet. Your diet should be rich in nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans (if you can tolerate them), fruits and vegetables, all of which feed good bugs. Some of you may not tolerate beans and grains if you have bad bacterial overgrowth. For those, I suggest starting with the 10-Day Detox Diet which eliminates gluten and dairy—big triggers for irritable bowel. this plan helps to eliminate the bad stuff and add the good stuff and it works fast.
2. Avoid the use of antibiotics, acid blockers and anti-inflammatories ... they change gut flora for the worse. Often, you can get off them if you follow my dietary suggestions and fix your gut. A patient recently said that when she eliminated gluten and dairy, all her reflux and irritable bowel symptoms just went away.
3. Take probiotics daily, which are not only beneficial for obvious gut dysfunction but also have been shown to help with depression, skin issues, autoimmune conditions and more.
4. Incorporate prebiotics. Prebiotics are a form of soluble fiber that help feed the good bugs in your gut. Prebiotics include foods like onions, garlic, resistant starch, sweet potatoes, dandelion greens and jicama. So eat plenty of these beneficial prebiotics.
5. Consider specialized testing such as organic acid, stool, gluten sensitivity and food allergy testing if the above strategies don't help you get to the bottom of your gut dysfunction. You might have to work with a Functional Medicine practitioner to effectively test and treat imbalances in your gut.
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By Stacy T. Sims
To put it simply: Bacteria follow the food you eat. The easiest way to manipulate your gut flora is by enriching your diet with a variety of probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics are the actual bacteria that live in your gut. Prebiotics are the substances that the bacteria eat. Food sources are the best way to get both of these, since the diversity of the bacteria in supplements is not as smart as nature; your second choice could be a high-quality, specific-flora supplement.
Fermented foods are not only tasty, they're excellent for gut health.
Once you've established a healthy colony, you have to care for it. Just as you wouldn't plant a garden and not feed or water it, you can't just pour some kefir on top of a bad diet and expect those beneficial microorganisms to grow and flourish. You need to feed them. Fiber from a balanced diet is one way to nourish your gut microbiome.
Every day scientists are discovering more benefits of having teeming, diverse gut colonies. Some probiotic health and performance benefits we know for certain include:
1. Improved Energy
Probiotics and a healthy gut flora facilitate good and healthy digestion, allowing you to optimally absorb all the vitamins and minerals you need to perform and recover.
2. Increased Immunity
Research shows that probiotics is one of the most surprising ways to improve immunity and can help fight bad bacteria and fend off and reduce the duration of upper respiratory infections (such as the common cold) and gastrointestinal woes such as diarrhea. One particularly interesting study found that highly trained distance runners (who are prone to falling ill from overtaxed immune systems) had less than half the number of sick days when they pumped up their diet with probiotics.
3. Heat Tolerance
Though more research is needed, it appears that having a healthy level of probiotics also improves exercise performance in the heat. In one study, runners were tasked to run to exhaustion in a series of tests pre- and postprobiotic supplementation (specifically 45 billion CFU of lactobacillus, bifidobacterium and streptococcus strains). After supplementation, the runners improved their performance by a whopping 14 percent in hot conditions. It is likely that the gut lining is protected from damage, which allows digestion and the cooling system to function optimally.
4. Lower Inflammation
Research shows that probiotics can lower levels of inflammation in the body. This helps prevent numerous diseases and illnesses, including chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes, as well as inflammation-based conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and irritable bowel syndrome.
5. Improved Well-Being
Probiotics have been linked to general health benefits of all kinds, including lower cholesterol; lower blood pressure; healthier blood sugar, body weight and body composition; and even better oral health. Healthy probiotic levels may also improve mood and some research finds that they may even help treat depression.
Adapted from Roar.
This article was reposted with permission from our media associate Rodale Wellness.
You probably didn’t even know what probiotics were a year ago. All of a sudden, you can find “good bacteria” in everything from toothpaste to chocolate. Probiotics have their place, but adding them to foods that lack natural beneficial bacteria may not make the foods any healthier or even worth consuming. When it comes to probiotics, there are certain guidelines that will help you separate hype from help. Here’s what Dr. Patricia Hibberd, a professor of pediatrics and chief of global health at MassGeneral Hospital for Children in Boston advised in a recent Huffington Post article.
Dairy products, including kefir, usually have the most probiotics. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
1. Unlike Drugs, Probiotics Are Not Regulated
While probiotic supplements are generally considered safe, they don’t require U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval or pass the same rigorous safety and effectiveness tests as drugs. When buying probiotics, be wary of vague claims, like “promotes digestive health.” Know, too, that there are no standardized levels of microbes or minimum levels required in foods or supplements.
2. Know Your Probiotic-Rich Foods
Dairy products usually have the most probiotics. Look for products containing “live and active cultures.” These include kefir, fermented milk drinks and aged cheeses such as cheddar, Gouda or Parmesan. You can also get probiotics from pickles packed in brine, sauerkraut, tempeh (a soy-based meat substitute) and kimchi (a spicy Korean condiment). Mild side effects may include gas and bloating, at least for the first few days.
3. Read Labels & Expiration Dates
Follow instructions on the package for proper dosage, frequency, storage and expiration dates—live organisms can have a limited shelf life. Some supplements must be refrigerated, or at least kept at room temperature in a cool, dark place.
4. Probiotics Are Not Safe for Everyone
If you have a weakened immune system, are undergoing an organ transplant, or had much of your gastrointestinal tract removed, you should avoid probiotics in foods or supplements. The same holds true if you’re being hospitalized and have central IV lines. If you have abnormal heart valves or need heart valve surgery, probiotics can pose the risk of infection. To help prevent or treat a specific health concern with probiotics, first consult your doctor.