By Taylor Sutton, MS, RD
United Supermarkets’ Lifestyle Desk
We’ve heard of this one time and time again — creating a healthy gut is the most important thing when it comes to the immune system. Why? The majority of our immune system lives there. While supplements can play a role in maintaining gut health, whole food sources, like the ones listed in this article, will be better absorbed by the body.
Are Probiotics necessary for me?
Not necessarily. Probiotics (and prebiotics, which is another topic) are helpful to create a well-functioning microbiome aka your gut or intestinal tract. You already have good bacteria living in your gut, and cultivating more through food sources will only continue to help your immune system thrive.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacterias that create and foster a sound immune system within the gut. A good majority of our immune system lives within the gut so keeping it healthy with good “gut bugs” is critical.
Where do I find Probiotics?
Fermented foods are where the main sources of probiotics can be found. Specific strains can also be found in a plethora of supplements. Be sure to talk with your doctor and registered dietitian before starting any supplement routine.
Can I be deficient in Probiotics?
Not necessarily. Measuring probiotics in the system isn’t a routine lab test. Going back to the point above, you already have good bacteria living in your gut, so it is simply about cultivating more good bacteria through the foods you eat.
What are some foods that are highest in Probiotics?
Yogurt, Kefir, Kimchi, Sauerkraut, Miso Soup, Soft Cheeses, Sourdough Bread, Sour Pickles, Tempeh, Miso
This is also a great time to mention that if you aren’t taking a multivitamin, you might want to talk with your doctor and registered dietitian to see if it would help your wellness routine. Multivitamins are sort of like your body’s insurance policy.
Blue Cheese Greek Yogurt Dip
What You Need
4 oz Blue Cheese
1/2 c. Fat Free Greek Yogurt
1/8 tsp. Cayenne
1/8 tsp. Ground Dried Mustard
1/4 tsp. Black Pepper
1 c. Tri-Colored Peppers
1 c. Celery
1 c. Carrot Sticks
1 lb. ReadyMeals Grilled Chicken
How It’s Made
1. In a small serving bowl combine the blue cheese and yogurt to mix well
2. On a rectangular platter set the bowl in the center
3. If you’re chicken is not already diced in 1-inch cubes, do so now
4. With the chicken, place it in a football shape around the bowl
5. Fill in the rest of the rectangle with the vegetables and serve
