Fit Tip: The Pro’s of Probiotics

Monday Morning Fit Tip:

BUILD MUSCLE TONE WITH A

POST-WORKOUT PROBIOTIC

You’ve probably already heard that probiotics are good bacteria that help maintain and strengthen the digestive system.  But here’s why they’re important to those who are physically active:

Probiotics May Help You Turn Protein into Muscle!

According to recent studies, certain strains of probiotics, particularly one called GanedenBC30, can increase the absorption of muscle-growing amino acids from the intestinal tract.  Whether other probiotic bacteria have a similar benefit is unknown, but all probiotics help to keep your intestinal tract healthy and boost the absorption of other nutrients, so it may do the same for amino acids.

  Probiotics Boost Immunity

Working out at a high intensity or training many hours a week puts stress on your body.  While low and moderate-intensity exercise boosts immunity against colds and flu viruses, training too hard or too long can actually have the opposite effect. Probiotics give your immune system a natural boost. In one study, endurance athletes had half the number of colds and viral infections when they took a probiotic supplement. They also had higher levels of certain proteins that fight off infection.

 Picking a Probiotic

Probiotics are treated by the FDA as supplements or food rather than medicine, so the products on store shelves are not fully tested.  Experts recommend choosing reliable brands with claims and recommended dosages that are based on scientific studies.  When buying yogurt, look for the words “live active cultures” and always check the expiration date.  The number of active bacterial cultures decreases over time.

The 5 Best Raw Probiotic Foods

1.  Coconuts – an excellent source of electrolytes, vitamins and minerals

2.  Honey

3.  Seaweed – low in fat and high in protein!

4.  Sprouts – rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins and enzymes, their nutritional value actually increases in the fridge!

5.  Berries

For more nutritional tips and tricks, check out our Pinterest page!

 

Probiotic Pineapple Smoothie

Blend together 4 Granny Smith Apples (high in fiber, soothes the intestines), 1 cup of fresh pineapple (high in potassium and magnesium), a nob of ginger (a natural antibiotic that soothes the digestive track) and 4 oz. of all-natural yogurt.  Enjoy!  Find more healthy recipes on our Pinterest page!

 

 

We carry Garden of Life probiotic supplements in liquid and capsule form, and members receive 10% off every day!

Kathie Brown

Certified NASM and AFAA Personal Trainer. Over 20 years experience. Specializes in weight loss, athletes and women body building and leaning out. Crossfit athlete, trains and competes in Crossfit competitions. Took the L1 Crossfit course and completed the judges course. Enjoys working with all levels and body types and loves seeing her clients get stronger and feel confident.