May 4, 2024

Athens News

News in English from Greece

Five foods that will keep your gut healthy


Good bowel function plays an extremely important role in the overall health of the body, so its care and improvement should be a priority.

The digestive system, in order to be able to properly manage what goes into it and carry out its processes, requires the presence of various bacteria known as “probiotics”. According to the International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics, these bacteria “are microorganisms that, when present in sufficient quantities, provide significant health benefits to the host (i.e., human).”

Research has proven that adding probiotic-rich foods to our daily diet provides significant benefitssuch as improved digestion, more energy, glowing skin and stronger immunity.

Although you can consume this bacteria from supplements, there is also many foods containing probiotics found in nature. The main condition for the “creation” of good bacteria is that these foods have undergone fermentation, a natural process during which carbohydrates such as starch and sugar are converted into alcohol or acids. There are many conditions that can disrupt your gut flora; to restore it, simply add the following foods with sufficient probiotics to your diet.

Yogurt
This is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “probiotics.” And you’re right, because the lactic acid product has been fermented and many labels say “live and active cultures,” meaning it contains bacteria needed by the intestines. By reading labels, you can also easily avoid yogurt with various sweeteners that won’t do you any good.

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Olives
Olives are undoubtedly a good source of probiotic bacteria. In fact, according to relevant studies, green olives, when consumed regularly, have been found to act as an antioxidant to reduce inflammation.

Apple vinegar
It is a fact that there are a number of benefits associated with consuming it and it is also a fantastic ingredient for skin and hair. Among other things, it also contains probiotics. You can combine it in various recipes or add it to salads.

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Kefir
An alternative option for those times when you are simply tired of yogurt. Kefir is essentially a probiotic-rich yogurt drink that can be added to your morning smoothie to boost your protein intake.

Pickles
Pickles and other vegetables (πίκλες) are another fermented food and therefore contain sufficient amounts of probiotics. Of course, their consumption requires attention to sodium content, i.e. salt.



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