Have you ever wondered which are the best ferments or sources of probiotics? 

In order to get the most benefits from living foods, it is best to consume as wide a variety of naturally fermented living ferments. However, there are definitely some that stand out from the crowd. 

1. Milk Kefir- has over 150 different strains of microorganisms in it and up to 60 different strains of probiotic bacteria. It is no wonder people have such phenomenal health benefit. Let's just be clear- these are result from fermenting with living grains (not store-bought products which use freeze dried manufactured cultures). Some strains in milk kefir include Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Leuconostoc, Saccharomyces, and Kluyveromyces strains.
2. Raw Sauerkraut and Kimchi
   Naturally fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and kimchi develop a range of Lactobacillus strains along with other lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, and even some beneficial molds. The diversity can vary depending on factors like ingredients, temperature, and fermentation length. It is best to ferment these ferments at cooler temperatures over longer periods of time. Sauerkraut has tested for up to 28 different strains of probiotics. It is no wonder Captain Cook used sauerkraut to save his crew from scurvy. 
3. Water Kefir
   Water kefir grains (also a SCOBY) contain numerous species of bacteria and yeasts, making it one of the most diverse fermented beverages. Water kefir tends to contain a wider variety of probiotic bacteria than kombucha.  Typical species include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces among others.
4. Kombucha
   Kombucha is rich in both acetic acid bacteria (like Acetobacter and Gluconobacter) and various yeasts. The symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) provides a mixed-culture fermentation, producing a wide spectrum of probiotics, organic acids, and enzymes.

Every ferment has its special aspects and it is difficult to say one is better that the other. Each ferment contains a different profile of microorganisms. It is often dependent on what conditions you may experience, the flavors your like, the lifestyle you have and many other variable which finally decide which is the best ferment for you.

While most ferments contain billions of microorganisms altogether, it is the diversity that one needs. Incorporating living naturally fermented foods and drinks into you lifestyle is a sure way to support better gut health.