From buttermilk to curd rice, khandvi and more, try these 7 probiotic delights for gut-boosting goodness

A popular South Indian dish that combines the nutritional richness of yoghurt and rice, curd rice supports gut health, digestion, and immunity

Amidst the chaos of modern living, the significance of nurturing gut health through balanced eating often takes a backseat. The erratic lifestyles, marked by fast-paced routines, irregular meal timings, and stress, play a vital role in hampering your digestive well-being. Besides, factors like excessive consumption of processed foods, inadequate fibre intake, and an imbalance in gut bacteria further contribute to the digestive woes.

There is a silver lining, however. Traditional Indian cuisine offers a treasure trove of probiotic-rich foods that not only tantalise the taste buds but also nurture your gut in ways beyond measure. Include these seven lip-smacking Indian probiotic foods in your diet to nurture your inner ecosystem:

Buttermilk: Packed with Lactobacillus bacteria, buttermilk is a potent probiotic. This dairy delight doesn't just support digestion and improve your healthy gut environment; it also works wonders in cooling the stomach and fighting acidity, often a consequence of your sedentary lifestyles and less-than-ideal eating habits.

Curd rice: A popular South Indian dish that combines the nutritional richness of yoghurt and rice, curd rice supports gut health, digestion, and immunity. Additionally, the inclusion of rice gently nourishes the digestive system, easing discomfort and encouraging regularity, while yoghurt's beneficial probiotics, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, contribute to maintaining a healthy gut and reinforcing the immune system. Plus, yoghurt's probiotics are known to reduce the  symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and improve lactose digestion.

Dhokla and khandvi: An essential part of the culinary heritage of most Gujarati families, lentil-based fermented dishes like dhokla and khandvi are exceptional probiotic sources. Fermentation not only enhances nutrient absorption but also supports gut health by nurturing a diverse microbiome.

Idli and dosa: These popular rice-based dishes undergo a fermentation process that cultivates beneficial bacteria. This fermentation process not only improves nutrient absorption but also eases digestion and contributes to enhanced gut health.

Kanji: A traditional fermented drink in India, kanji, is an exceptional beverage celebrated for nurturing gut health. This probiotic strain plays a role in enhancing intestinal health by curbing harmful bacteria, encouraging a healthier gut environment, and potentially easing digestive discomfort.

Raw banana: Raw bananas, when consumed as a cooked vegetable or as chips, contain resistant starch. This type of starch acts as a prebiotic, serving as food for beneficial gut bacteria that aids in their growth.

Traditional Indian pickles: Traditional Indian pickles like aam ka achar, neembu ka achar, adrak, or haldi ka achaar are among several popular pickles available in Indian homes. Along with offering various flavours, they are also good for digestion. Through natural fermentation, these pickles can turn into probiotic-rich treats. This fermentation process involves helpful bacteria that break down sugars and starches, supporting a healthy gut and aiding in digestion.