Do You Need a Probiotic Supplement?
Ask the Diva: Do You Need a Probiotic Supplement?
Ask the Diva: Do You Need a Probiotic Supplement?Q. I enjoyed your show on fermented foods and the benefits of probiotics. I’m wondering if I should take a probiotic supplement to get more of these good guys in my body.
Answer. The problem with probiotic supplements is that it can be hard to know what you’re really getting. One consumer lab tested probiotic supplements found on store shelves and found that fewer than half contained the amount of active cultures promised on the label and a substantial number were contaminated with other strains of bacteria.
One nice thing about getting your probiotics from yogurt and other fresh foods is that you know they haven’t been sitting around in a hot warehouse for who-knows-how-long. A cup of plain yogurt (with the Live and Active Cultures seal) provides approximately the same “dose” as a typical probiotic supplement.
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.
