Health highlights | Probiotics

You do need Taking probiotics to improve digestion and have a healthy gut?

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that affect your body. However, OSF HealthCare gastroenterologist Omar Khokhar says the research is not yet at a stage where he can recommend taking probiotic supplements.

Instead, he suggests getting the nutrients through fermented foods and drinks.

“I suggest you take prebiotics and probiotics in their natural form—in kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha, or Greek yogurt,” says Dr. Khokhar. “These are highly fermented foods that are in an organic state and have been proven to improve the vitality of the gut microbiome.”

If these types of foods or drinks are too difficult to incorporate into your diet, Dr. Khokhar to talk to your doctor first.

In most cases, taking prebiotic or probiotic supplements will not hurt and may potentially help.