New publications
Top 10 foods that contain probiotics
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Probiotics are living organisms that live in the intestines and are one of the elements of functional nutrition that has a health-improving effect. Products containing probiotics improve well-being and have a positive effect on the body's functions, and also slow down the development of pathogenic bacteria.
In what foods should you look for probiotics?
Yogurt
The most well-known source of probiotics is yogurt. Bifidobacteria (lactic acid bacteria) maintain balance in the intestines. Probiotics can help fight gas, lactose intolerance and diarrhea. It is best to buy yogurt with active and live cultures.
Kefir
Legend has it that kefir was invented by accident, simply by discovering that when milk ferments, it turns into a foamy, filling product. Thick and dense, like yogurt, kefir is rich in its own strains of probiotics and also contains yeast that is beneficial to the body.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut contains lactic acid bacteria and beneficial leuconostoc microbes. Sauerkraut contains a large number of vitamins that stimulate immunity.
Miso soup
Miso soups, which are prepared on the basis of fermented soybean paste, can speed up the digestive system. This paste contains about 160 strains of bacteria. Moreover, such soup has very few calories, but is high in antioxidants and vitamin B.
Cheese
Not all probiotics can survive transport through the gastrointestinal tract, but some fermented cheeses, such as soft Gouda, can carry probiotics to their destination.
Dark chocolate
Good quality dark chocolate contains nearly four times the amount of probiotics found in dairy products.
Unleavened bread
This is sourdough bread. It improves digestion due to the lactic acid bacteria it contains. So before making a sandwich, pay attention to what kind of bread you are going to put cheese and sausage on.
Milk
Milk that has been fermented with acidophilus and lactic acid bacteria will help increase the amount of probiotics in your diet. This milk is called acidophilus.
Conservation
However, only the one prepared without vinegar. Water and sea salt enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria. For example, cucumbers preserved in this way are very useful for digestion.
Tempe
This is an Indonesian product made from fermented soybeans. It is rich in a variety of beneficial probiotics that can fight and inhibit the growth of some pathogenic bacteria. It is also rich in protein and is often used as a substitute for meat.
Probiotics as dietary supplements
Probiotics as dietary supplements come in various forms: tablets, powders, capsules, and liquids. However, be sure to consult your doctor before using them.