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Probiotics are healthy bacteria that live in the gut keeping it healthy and work wonders on the digestive system. They are recognised and often prescribed by doctors to help with digestive problems. Live yogurt is the most typical form but there are other forms too, kefir being one of them. (We have a recipe from Lindsey Johnson, writing at the HelloGlow blog. The link to know all about probiotics is at the end.)
Mary Jo DiLonardo writing at WebMD says …
Many types of bacteria are classified as probiotics. They all have different benefits, but most come from two groups. Ask your doctor about which might best help you.
Lactobacillus. This may be the most common probiotic. It’s the one you’ll find in yogurt and other fermented foods. Different strains can help with diarrhea and may help with people who can’t digest lactose, the sugar in milk.
Bifidobacterium. You can also find it in some dairy products. It may help ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and some other conditions.
Probiotics are used to treat IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, infectious diarrhea and antibiotic-related diarrhea. Some research shows they help with eczema, urinary and vaginal health, preventing allergies and colds and oral health.
As always, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for more information.
The 1st of our probiotic smoothie recipes …
Recipe 1: Savory Probiotic Smoothie
Serves 1-2
Lindsey says …
This smoothie is reminiscent of a savory lassi. Not only will you reap the benefits of the helpful strains of bacteria and yeast, but kefir also has plenty of calcium, protein and vitamin D. Cucumber is very hydrating and loaded with cucurbitacins, lignans and flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory benefits. Cilantro and fresh lemon juice are great detoxifiers [that help the liver do its fantastic job of cleansing our bodies]
Ingredients:
2 cups organic whole milk Kefir, unsweetened, chilled
1 cup chopped Cucumber, peeled if waxed
1/4 cup fresh Cilantro or mint leaves
Juice of 1 Lemon
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground Cumin
pinch Salt
Cumin Seeds, optional, for garnish
Blend until smooth and enjoy the benefits of this first smoothie.
Now for the sweet version of this Probiotic Smoothie …
Recipe 2: Sweet Probiotic Smoothie
Ingredients:
2 cups organic whole milk Kefir, unsweetened, chilled
1 cup chopped Mango, Peach OR Berries
1/4 cup fresh Mint leaves
Juice of 1 Lemon
1 teaspoon Honey OR Maple Syrup, or sugar, to taste
tiny pinch Salt
Cucumber will also be a good addition for the nutrients and water it provides.
Blend until smooth and ring the changes to enjoy the benefits of these cool smoothies.
Sources: WebMD; WHFoods; HelloGlow
Photo: DrinkMeHealthy
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