It’s always best to consult with a health care professional to discuss whether probiotics could be helpful for you. Our best probiotic supplements of 2023 ranking is determined by a Forbes Health panel of experts. They provide their product recommendations, along with reasons they stand out. Davis recommends NOW’s Probiotic-10 due to its blend of “10 strains that have been [scientifically] validated.” NOW supplements employ “good quality control and testing,” she explains.
Natto is rich in protein and vitamin K2, which is important for bone and cardiovascular health. For example, a 2020 Japanese study found that regularly consuming natto reduced the risk of osteoporosis fractures in women postmenopause. Cultured buttermilk, commonly found in American supermarkets, generally does not have any probiotic benefits. Pickles are cucumbers that have been preserved in salty water and fermented. However, pickles made with vinegar do not have probiotic effects. It’s important to note that pickles made with vinegar do not contain live probiotics.
Each bottle is 10 fluid ounces and contains under 50 calories and just 9 grams of sugar. Bear’s Fruit brew their kombucha with whole organic fruit instead of extracting the juice concentrate, which keeps the total sugar content down. There is cane sugar used for the fermentation process, but no sugar or fruit juices are added after that stage. “Personally, my favorite yogurt is Siggi’s Icelandic yogurt (also known as skyr) because of its creamy texture and rich taste,” Baumohl says. Middleberg notes that it’s low in sugar and contains five live active bacteria cultures.
Also try to choose drinks with little or no added sugar, such as tap or bottled water, low-fat or non-fat milk, and unsweetened tea, coffee, or sparkling water. Chobani’s Complete line is one of the best probiotic Greek yogurts because it also includes fiber from chicory root for a more balanced, filling snack. A container has 15 grams or 30 percent of your DV of protein, and it’s also a good source of probiotics, with six live and active cultures. Andrea is an Alabama-based registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of the healthy food blogs, Beautiful Eats & Things, and Little Eats & Things and author of The Complete Book of Smoothies.
Miso soup works great with larger meals or makes a nice, light lunch on its own. This German comfort food is a fermented cabbage made by lacto-fermenting the vegetable in its brine and some salt. As part of the traditional fermentation process, probiotics are in the end product. In some cases, you could develop an allergic reaction, so it’s always important to pay close attention to the label of your probiotic products.
Probiotics are known to promote a healthy gut by introducing good bacteria into our digestive system. While many people turn to supplements and fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi, incorporating probiotics into our diet through fruits can also be beneficial. So, you might wonder: What’s the best fruit for probiotics?
By Amber J. TrescaTresca is a freelance writer and speaker who covers digestive conditions, including IBD. However, the number of bacteria in any one food can vary due to a number of factors. The number of bacteria is measured in colony-forming units (CFUs), which are the number of living cells. Arricca Elin SanSone has written about health and lifestyle topics for Prevention, Country Living, Woman’s Day, and more. She’s passionate about gardening, baking, reading, and spending time with the people and dogs she loves.
Top Fruits for Probiotics:
- Bananas: Bananas contain prebiotic fiber that feeds the good bacteria in your gut, supporting their growth and activity.
- Apples: Apples are rich in pectin, a type of fiber that acts as a prebiotic and promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria.
- Blueberries: Blueberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and polyphenols that can support a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can any fruit provide probiotics?
While all fruits offer some health benefits, not all of them contain probiotics. Look for fruits that are high in fiber and have natural sugars to support the growth of good bacteria.
- How should I incorporate probiotic-rich fruits into my diet?
You can enjoy these fruits on their own as a snack, add them to smoothies or yogurt bowls, or include them in salads for a flavorful twist.
By including probiotic-rich fruits in your diet, you can improve your gut health naturally. Experiment with different fruits to find the ones that work best for you and enjoy the benefits of a happy gut!