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Probiotic foods contain healthy microbes and good bacteria that help maintain the ongoing balance of good versus evil micro-organisms in your intestines.

If you can stomach (pun intended) words like intestines and accept that there are, in fact, good and healthy bacteria (much like healthy fats), then you may want to try adding probiotics (which means "for life") to your diet.

But, where exactly do you find these well-meaning destroyers of free radicals and viral cells? Fortunately, due to increased research and a growing number of studies, several manufacturers are adding probiotics to their products and/or creating probiotic supplements.

Potential Benefits of Probiotics

• Lessen lactose intolerance problems
• Prevent colon cancer
• Lower blood pressure
• Improve immune system
• Prevent infections
• Reduce inflammation
• Improve mineral absorption
• Counteract negative effects of stress

Probiotic Foods

The most common source of probiotic foods is in your supermarket's yogurt section. Check out the labels on several of the brands next time you're there, and you will notice many advertise the benefits of these healthy bacteria.

Of course, be sure to steer clear of the super-sugary varieties, or you may completely offset the advantages of the probiotics all together. There are also a few types of milk that have been fortified with probiotics.

If you're not a big fan of yogurt, or would rather get all the benefits without the added calories and questionable ingredients, just go for a supplement.

Again, you can find several different brands and dosages at your local vitamin shop or health food store.

As with many health trends, there are stark critics on both sides of the debate. While there have been several studies linking probiotics to all of the benefits listed above, there is also significant evidence that those with pancreatitis should steer clear.

So, if you're pancreatitis-free, just go with your gut (seriously, I'll stop!), give them a try, and decide if probiotic foods or supplements are for you.

For more great nutrition tips like probiotic foods and several other health and fitness-related news and advice, check out http://www.fitbuff.com