The best way to know what's in any kind of product you're consuming is to call the manufacturer. This goes for any product, any ingredient, including probiotics. The hard part in health and nutrition is waiting for the research. Many products that state they contain probitotics appear to discuss general benefits, but the research is still pending tying specific benefits to specific strands. USprobiotics is a great website for more information!
As with most nutrition related products (it seems), there is even a seal of approval for products containing probiotics! The only caveat is that the label doesn't tell us the level of probiotics in the product.
So my advice is the same as yesterday- if you feel like your feeling better with taking probiotics, then go ahead. And if you don't feel a difference, no harm done, except for maybe a few dollars lost. The websites I've provided give you enough tools to research specific strands and potential relief from specific ailments. You can always discuss your individual and personal concerns, thoughts, questions with your MD or RD. (Of course this is always highly recommended!)
One product I happen to like is Kefir. As with all products (and hence the lack of medical recommendations at this point for probiotic use), research is pending. I did come along this article the other day that shows promise. More studies are needed, in children and adults alike (of course.)
So if you too like Kefir, I've provided a simple recipe below! Are there benefits? Of course! At the very least you have a tasty, low calorie smoothie providing you with part of your daily calcium requirements! Enjoy!
Standard Smoothie with a Twist
8 oz Kefir milk (I used original, you could use any flavor)
1 cup frozen berries
honey or agave nectar to taste (if using original and not a flavored version)
*Note this smoothie is a little bit more tart than what one might expect (which is exactly why I love it!) If you're looking for a sweeter taste try mixing 4oz Kefir and 4oz 100% fruit juice instead.
* Note 2! For anyone who is in a rush these days (haha. Who could that be?!), this makes a very quick, nutritious, on-the-go breakfast.
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Great recipe! I've been wanting to try kefir for a while because I've heard it's delicious...I'll definitely try this one (and agave nectar too, what a win win!) I'm a big fan of probiotic supplements because they often offer more strains and higher potency than probiotic foods. My pick is Flora Source Multi-Probiotic (16 probiotic strains and 16 billion active cells per capsule). I agree, you always want to know how many active probiotic cells (CFU) there are in your probiotic product...and it is always good to get advice from your Health Care Professional with any supplement.
ReplyDelete- Anna M
http://blog.nutri-health.com/