Probiotics come in the form of foods, dietary supplements, and even gummies, but did you know about simple and inexpensive probiotic drinks? Since probiotics contain viable microorganisms that are said to affect the intestines and the immune system positively, consuming them regularly and in natural form seems like a no-brainer.
But what are the best probiotic drinks? Read more about best probiotic drinks in this article.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics means “for life.” They are products that contain viable microorganisms. This includes natural foods such as sauerkraut and beetroot, products specially enriched with probiotics such as yogurt, dietary supplements, and medicines.
Various studies show that probiotics positively influence the balance of the intestinal flora. Because they increase the number of “good” germs in the intestine, “bad” germs (pathogens) have less chance of spreading there. Harmless digestive problems such as flatulence can often be dispelled.
Some probiotics also produce antibiotic defenses against pathogenic germs or increase the activity of certain immune cells. This supports the entire body’s defense. However, the exact mechanism of action of the various probiotic strains is still the subject of research.
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How probiotics drinks help
Probiotics have long been known to have beneficial effects on digestive health, but did you know that probiotics can also improve immune function, mental health, and even skin health? One of the most convenient and delicious ways to consume probiotics is through probiotic drinks that are widely available in supermarkets and health food stores.
The function of the intestinal flora
The intestinal flora (microbiome) is made up of around 100 trillion microorganisms (microbes), which in turn are divided into 1,000 different species. They have complicated names such as Lactobacillus casei or Bifidobacterium bifidum and are naturally found in the human intestine.
With a total weight of about 1.5 kilograms, the intestinal flora is of enormous importance for the health of body and psyche. Normal digestion would not be possible without the microbes. In addition, the microbiome stimulates intestinal movement, which transports the chyme and produces vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting.
Intestinal flora and immunity: How probiotic drinks help
In addition, the intestinal flora is involved in the immune system. In addition, experts suspect that a different composition of the intestinal flora is related to some mental illnesses and developmental disorders of brain functions.
The microbes react sensitively to unhealthy nutrition and stress. For example, the balance between the different species shifts, which triggers digestive problems such as flatulence, constipation, or diarrhea. Antibiotics and other medications also upset the balance of the microbiome.
Probiotic drinks support the intestinal flora
First and foremost, you support your intestinal flora by avoiding stressful influences. If you also want to do something good for the intestinal dwellers, probiotics can help in some cases.
However, a prerequisite for their positive effect is that the probiotic drinks reach the large intestine in sufficient quantities. Therefore, bacterial cultures that are sufficiently resistant to gastric acid, bile acids, and digestive enzymes are important.
In addition, probiotics in probiotic drinks must have the ability to attach to the intestinal wall. This is the only way for them to settle on-site and support the local intestinal flora. Various lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are used particularly often as probiotics.
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Probiotic drinks improve digestive health
One of the primary benefits of probiotic drinks is improved digestive health. Probiotics in these drinks help to maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can prevent digestive issues like bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. For those with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), probiotics can be especially helpful in managing symptoms.
Probiotic drinks boost the immune system
Probiotics can also support immune function by helping to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses. The gut is home to a large percentage of the body’s immune cells, and probiotics have been shown to stimulate the production of these cells. This means that probiotic drinks can help to reduce the frequency and severity of infections, such as colds and flu.
Probiotics in drinks improve mental health
Research has shown that the gut-brain connection is powerful and that the health of our gut can significantly impact our mental health. Probiotics have been shown to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety and may even positively affect cognitive function. Drinking probiotic drinks may be a simple way to support improved mental and physical health.
Probiotic drinks for better skin health
Did you know that the health of your skin is closely tied to the health of your gut? Probiotics may help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can translate to improved skin health, reduced acne, and a more youthful complexion. Incorporating probiotic drinks into the diet may be a simple and effective solution for those struggling with skin issues.
Probiotic drinks combine convenience and deliciousness
Finally, one of the key benefits of probiotic drinks is that they are both convenient and delicious. Whether you prefer kefir, kombucha, or a simple probiotic lemonade, plenty of options will satisfy your taste buds while providing powerful health benefits. Plus, many of these drinks come in portable bottles, making it easy to take them on the go and reap the benefits of probiotics throughout the day.
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Probiotic drinks you should know
Probiotics, the “good” bacteria found in fermented foods, are well-known for their digestive health benefits. But probiotics offer more than just gut-boosting power. Probiotic drinks, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular as more people prioritize overall wellness and seek to support their immune systems.
However, with so many different types of probiotic drinks on the market, knowing which ones to try can be challenging. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most popular probiotic drinks out there and what makes them unique.
Kombucha
This fizzy, fermented tea has been around for centuries but has recently gained mainstream popularity. Kombucha is made by fermenting black or green tea with sugar and a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). As a result of this fermentation, kombucha contains a wide range of bacteria and yeast strains, as well as organic acids and antioxidants.
Many people enjoy kombucha for its tangy, slightly sweet flavor and its reputed health benefits, which may include improved digestion and reduced inflammation.
Kefir
Kefir is a fermented milk drink that originated in the Caucasus Mountains. It is made by adding kefir grains (a combination of bacteria and yeast) to milk. This blend ferments for several hours to produce a tangy, creamy drink. Kefir is rich in probiotics and calcium, protein, and B vitamins.
While kefir is traditionally made from cow’s milk, there are also non-dairy options available, such as coconut kefir and water kefir, which are made from coconut milk and sugar water, respectively.
Yakult
This Japanese drink is a fermented milk beverage that contains the probiotic strain Lactobacillus casei Shirota. Yakult has a slightly sweet taste and a thin, drinkable consistency. Some studies have suggested that Yakult may improve digestive health, cognitive function, and immune function.
Kvas
This traditional Eastern European drink is made from rye bread, water, and a fermented starter culture. Kvas has a tangy, slightly sour flavor and is often used instead of alcohol. It contains a range of probiotic bacteria, as well as B vitamins and antioxidants.
Switchel
This beverage, sometimes called “Nature’s Gatorade,” is a refreshing blend of water, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and honey or maple syrup. Switchel is a simple, homemade probiotic drink that is easy to make and can be customized to individual tastes. It is believed to promote digestive health, reduce inflammation, and balance pH levels in the body.
As you can see, probiotic drinks are a tasty way to support overall health and are just as beneficial as their supplement form. Whether you prefer the tangy sweetness of kombucha, the creamy richness of kefir, or the refreshing simplicity of switchel, there is a probiotic drink out there for everyone. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t hesitate to explore this new tide of healthy and vibrant probiotic drinks and enjoy its numerous benefits.
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Probiotic drinks: How much should I take?
In order to benefit from the microorganisms’ positive effect, it is not enough to spoon up a probiotic yogurt. Probiotics only settle temporarily in the intestine. You must consume them continuously, preferably daily, for a lasting health effect.
The number of germs is also important: for a positive influence on the intestinal flora, it is necessary to take between 100 million and one billion probiotic bacteria daily.
No legal regulations for probiotic foods regarding the minimum content of beneficial germs exist. In the case of medicinal products, the exact content of probiotics is stated on the packaging or in the package insert.
