Probiotics Fight Cancer (And The Best Sources)

You probably know that probiotics—the bacteria found in yogurt, buttermilk, kefir and other cultured dairy products, as well as lacto-fermented veggies like sauerkraut and kimchi—can improve gastrointestinal health. Now new research shows another way these good-for-you germs guard against disease.

Probiotics fight cancer!

Inactivate Cancer-Causing Compounds… with Good Ole Fashioned Sauerkraut

Researchers at the Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health recently found that probiotics inactivate carcinogens that can damage DNA. And in doing so, may help to protect against one of the most prevalent cancers—colon cancer.

Probiotics are also known immune-boosters that play an important role in training and modulating the immune system – a key in preventing cancer.

Choosing The Best Probiotics to Fight Cancer

While probiotics are extremely beneficial, don’t be duped by the mass-marketed “probiotic” yogurts and drinks at your local grocer. Most are loaded with sugar (the #1 cancer promoter!) as well as carageenan (a questionable cancer promoting ingredient), artificial flavors, colors and other unhealthy ingredients.

The best probiotics to fight cancer are those our ancestors enjoyed including:

Lacto-fermented veggies: Real fermented veggies contain no vinegar. Try Bubbie’s Sauerkraut and Pickles for delicious foods with probiotic benefits.
Raw, cultured dairy from grass-fed cows or goats: Rich in healthy fats and bioactive factors, and free from adulterants or hormones and other toxins associated with conventional dairy, raw cultured dairy is rich in beneficial bacteria.
Inner-Eco Probiotic Kefir: A wonderful coconut-based dairy-free source of probiotics, available at Whole Foods.

You can also opt for a high quality probiotic supplement (with “live and active” on the label) to get the benefits of these healthy cultures, but be advised – storage and shipping can greatly reduce the numbers of live and active cultures.

As always, food is the best medicine.