MUSUBI: Gut-Checking in Japan

Bacteria have a bad reputation and for good reason. The thought of eating a few billion a day in the interest of your own health is hard to digest. But not all bacteria are malicious. In fact, our bodies harbor an estimated 100 trillion “good” bacteria, many of which are found in our gut. Not only do we live in harmony with these beneficial bacteria, but they are actually essential to our survival. These microorganisms, called probiotics, surpass the number of human cells by a ratio of 10 to 1!

People were taking probiotics long before they became mainstream. The word probiotics derives from the Greek word “pro bios” – for life. Our belief in the beneficial properties of fermented milk beverages stretches back to Biblical times.

It is known that Pliny the Elder recommended such drinks for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases in the first century AD. In the era of Genghis Khan, around the 12th century AD, fermented milk was prized as a fountain of strength and health. So much so that Mongol women literally doused their warriors with it to protect them during battles.

Have you been consuming enough probiotic-rich foods in your diet, then? Most likely not! With hectic lifestyles and busy calendars, people often don’t consume the recommended daily dose of probiotics. In most cases, you don’t need to buy expensive pills or supplements to consume more probiotics. In fact, in Japan, there are a number of probiotic foods and drinks that are enjoyable, nutritious, and easy to consume as part of a healthy, balanced diet.