Probiotic foods

Probably several foods called probiotics are already part of your menu, but you may not know which of these properties have the benefits they offer your body.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), probiotics are living microorganisms (bacteria) that, when ingested in adequate amounts, provide health benefits. One of the main characteristics of probiotic microorganisms is their ability to reach the intestine alive.

Examples of the most common probiotic foods include cheeses, yogurts and fermented milks.

However, it is noteworthy that not all dairy products contain health-friendly bacteria. Therefore, you need to check product labels.

Why are probiotics so important?

Our gut already has bacteria naturally. In an adult, there are more than 500 species of microorganisms composing the intestinal flora, some of which are considered beneficial, others are harmful and there are those that do not negatively or positively interfere with the functioning of the organism.

Because these microorganisms are naturally present in our gut, they tend to live in balance. However, poor diet, emotional factors or use of antibiotic drugs can cause an imbalance in the intestinal flora and make the body more vulnerable.

That's where the probiotics come into play. Eating these foods stimulates the proliferation of beneficial bacteria and helps restore the balance of the intestinal flora, which is why they are so important.

Benefits of Probiotics

The health benefits of probiotics depend on how much and how often they are ingested. If consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet, lactobacilli-like probiotics help balance the intestinal flora. Bifidobacterial probiotics, on the other hand, can help those with lazy bowel problems.

But the advantages of probiotic foods are not limited to the proper functioning of the intestines. These foods increase the absorption of vitamins and minerals contained in other foods, as well as strengthen the body's defenses (immune system).

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