In the past, I’ve posted that about 70 % of our immune system is in our gut. Many of my friends have started asking me about what pill or capsule or powder to take to boost their immune systems during the pandemic. Here’s what I suggest.
First, I’d like to point out thatI am a strong believer that it is best to take prebiotics and probiotics in the food we eat.
What’s a probiotic?
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can improve the microbial balance and can help to maintain good gut health. In other words, these are live organisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts can bring health benefits to the host.
Here is a list of some of the most popular probiotic foods; they are easy to find and full of beneficial bacteria:
- Yogurt (preferably homemade)
- Miso
- Tempeh
- Kvass
- Sauerkraut
- Apple cider vinegar
- Natto
- Kimchi
- Kefir
- Pickles (make sure they are really fermented pickles)
- Kombucha
Although specific probiotics provide benefits for certain gut problems, many people use probiotics for general good health.
Just because you consume probiotics, don’t think that you can indulge in eating crap. Prebiotics must be present in your diet in order for the probiotics (good microbes) to be able to flourish and thrive.
What’s a prebiotic?
Prebiotics are largely nondigestible fibers that provide nourishment for beneficial bacteria; probiotics.
Here is a list of some prebiotic foods that are easily incorporated into your diet to help feed your beneficial good bugs:
- Acacia gum (gum Arabic)
- Raw asparagus
- Raw jicama
- Green bananas
- Raw Jerusalem artichoke
- Raw dandelion greens
- Raw garlic
- Raw/cooked onion
- Raw leek
- Raw chicory root
Do you need probiotics and prebiotics?
In short, yes. The word “symbiotic” refers to the combination of probiotics and prebiotics and how they work together, in synergy, to improve health. Some researchers suggest that when prebiotics are added to probiotics there is improved viability of the probiotic.
To make a long story short, always be eating your prebiotic fiber-rich foods along with your probiotics.
If you eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in prebiotic foods, probiotic foods, and other gut-healing, microbiome-balancing herbs, spices, teas, and foods, you will be well on your way to being one step ahead of the game in this dreary covid-19 environment we are stuck in.
That’s it for now my friends; see you all the next time.
