Healthy Diet for July 19 – Get a Little “Culture”

You’re told to protect against disease-causing bacteria: wash your hands, refrigerate perishable food, cook food thoroughly, keep food clean. Then what are friendly bacteria?

Probiotics are health-promoting bacteria that grow naturally in your intestines, and help keep fungi and harmful bacteria there at bay. If antibiotics wipe them out, there’s nothing to keep the bad guys in check. Potential problem? Perhaps diarrhea.

Friendly bacteria—Lactobacillus and Bifiodobacterium—live in some yogurts and fermented milks. Ingesting good bacteria may sustain or reintroduce good bacteria in your gut. That’s why your doctor may suggest yogurt or milk with active cultures if you have a gastrointestinal (GI) upset. Good bacteria also may help with lactose intolerance, improve immunity, and perhaps reduce your risk of cancer or a high cholesterol level.

For a little “culture” in your meals:

• Look for “contains live cultures” on the label. Your best bet: some yogurts, kefir (a fermented milk), and some acidophilus milk. If it says “made with live cultures,” processing may have destroyed the bacteria.
• Be cautious of probiotic supplements. Take them only with guidance from your health care professional.
• Be sensible. Probiotics won’t cure an ongoing GI problem. Get medical attention.