Prebiotics and Probiotics -The Perfect Pair for Brain Health

Did you know that probiotics may have a beneficial effect on your mental health? Scientists believe there may be a link between your gut health and your brain. There has been increasing research on the connection between these two body parts and how probiotics can be a beneficial factor.

Probiotics are live microorganisms found in various fermented foods and when consumed, have beneficial properties mainly to help maintain a healthy gut. A recent study suggests they can also help ease depression and lower anxiety. Additionally, probiotics can be even more beneficial when they are combined with prebiotics.

Prebiotics, like probiotics, work to aid in maintaining a healthy gut. They function as a source of food for your body to help good bacteria grow. Research suggests probiotics contain beneficial properties for brain health as well.

 4 Additional Properties of Probiotics:

Probiotics may positively impact brain health by increasing the production of the amino acid Tryptophan, which is found in low numbers in people suffering from depression and anxiety. Probiotics are a great addition to your diet and as research suggests, they have properties that go beyond physical health:

1. Gut health- Probiotics aid in maintaining a healthy gut. They are a form of “healthy bacteria” and restore a natural balance within your body.

2. Heart Health- Probiotics may help lower cholesterol by helping to break down bile as well as help with lowering blood pressure.

3. Allergy Reducer- Probiotics have been shown to reduce the severity of certain allergies.

4. Digestive Disorders– The live microorganisms have been shown to help those with inflammatory bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.

6 Food Sources of Probiotics

It is popular to find probiotics in the form of a supplement you buy at the health food. However, there are plenty of common foods that are great sources of probiotics:

1. Yogurt: Not all yogurts contain live probiotics, some of the beneficial microorganisms get killed in processing. Make sure to read the label and look for yogurts with active or live cultures. Try out plain Greek yogurt that is rich in live probiotics.

2. Kefir: Kefir is a fermented probiotic milk beverage made from kefir grains. Kefir also has additional benefits for bone health and may help fight infections.

3. Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is fermented cabbage that contains lactic acid bacteria. It is not only a great source for probiotics, but is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

4. Tempeh: A popular part of a vegetarian diet, tempeh is a fermented soybean product. It is high in protein and a great source of probiotics.

5. Kimchi: A popular Korean side dish, Kimchi is fermented cabbage that is rich in lactic acid bacteria that helps with digestive health.

6. Pickles: Pickles are a great topping but is also considered a good source of probiotics. They aid in digestive health and are also a great source of vitamin K for blood clotting.

Food Sources of Prebiotics

Prebiotics are carbohydrates that your body cannot digest so they are able to act as food for the good bacteria in your lower gastrointestinal tract. You are probably eating many foods that are considered prebiotics and you don’t even know it. Common fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are considered prebiotics. Here are just a few:

• Apples
• Garlic
• Bananas
• Legumes
• Oats
• Onions
• Wheat

Adding probiotics and prebiotics to your diet is proven to be extremely beneficial. Mental health is just as important as physical, and probiotics are a great way to aid in both. With so many common food sources of probiotics, incorporating them into your everyday meals is easy.

Your Turn To Take Action: How do you get your probiotics each day? Let me know in the comment section below.

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