Rediscovered – good old probiotics

Intestines and your immune system

The bacterial flora of the intestines has a huge impact on our immunity. In periods of increased susceptibility to influenza and colds, and when fighting an infection, it is worth supporting our natural allies by providing the body with probiotics. There are many dietary supplements on the market, which manufacturers promote and encourage consumers to take. However, before we reach for the capsule or give it to our children, it is worth recalling the ways of our grandmothers, which were very effective when no-one had ever dreamed of probiotics in capsules.

Fermented is healthy

Often dismissed as a relic of the past, something that does not quite match our modern kitchen, fermented products are gaining a second life. Fermented cucumbers or sauerkraut are excellent probiotics. They are rich in B vitamins, which have an under-appreciated effect on the functioning of the nervous system and on concentration. During fermentation, lactic acid bacteria multiply improving digestion and expelling toxins. It is also worth drinking a glass of the water used to ferment vegetables before a meal because it has excellent properties – it improves appetite, digestion and naturally disinfects the digestive system.

Kvass

Kvass is a speciality of the Podlasie region of Poland. It is a drink based on yeast and lactic acid. When properly prepared, it tastes of rye bread and quenches thirst perfectly. It is a natural probiotic with excellent health benefits.

Dairy products

Yoghurt, kefir and buttermilk are also probiotics if, of course, they contain the right amount of bacteria. Often, flavoured dairy products, which contain huge amounts of sugar, do not have any probiotic properties. Therefore, it is essential to read the labels and check that the product actually contains the right amount of bacteria. You can also prepare your own homemade yoghurt.

Probiotics are a fact

Natural probiotics are treated by some as food that has gone bad and are therefore eliminated from their diet. If fermenting is considered a process where food goes off (because bacteria are activated), they can literally be treated as products going bad. However, definitions are always just words or opinions and the probiotic properties of these products are facts. And thanks to these facts you do not have to wonder how long your flu will last.