22. Dr. Axe’s Top Tips & Tricks for Optimal Nutrition+Boosting Your Immune System- with Dr. Josh Axe

Soil-Based Probiotics

Josh Axe emphasizes the importance of soil-based probiotics for gut health and immune support. He explains that these probiotics, found in foods like natto and miso, act as natural immune boosters and help clear out harmful bacteria in the digestive system. Axe shares that his top supplement recommendations include soil-based probiotics, which have been shown to improve digestion and overall health.

Soil-based organisms act as natural immune boosters. Immune health today is the most important time than ever before that we strengthen our immune systems.

--- Josh Axe

He also notes that these probiotics are often found in the soil on vegetables from local markets, and advises not to over-clean these veggies to retain their beneficial properties 1 2.

   

Lab-Based Probiotics

Lab-based probiotics, while beneficial, may not be suitable for everyone. Josh Axe explains that individuals with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or candida should be cautious with certain fermented foods like kombucha and dairy. He suggests that these foods, although healthy for many, can exacerbate issues in sensitive individuals.

If somebody has candida, they need to be careful with dairy, and they need to be careful with kombucha.

--- Josh Axe

For those without such conditions, lab-based probiotics can still be a valuable addition to their diet, but it's essential to consider individual health needs 3 4.

   

Probiotic-Rich Foods

Probiotic-rich foods play a crucial role in maintaining gut health and boosting the immune system. Josh Axe highlights foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso as excellent sources of probiotics that can enhance digestion and immunity. He also mentions the importance of consuming these foods seasonally and according to individual health needs.

Fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi are also going to help strengthen their immune system.

--- Josh Axe

Axe advises that while raw vegetables can be beneficial in certain seasons, cooked vegetables are often easier to digest and more suitable for those with weakened immune systems or digestive issues 5 6.