Are there probiotics in sour cream

Probiotics are live microorganisms with possible digestive health benefits. Probiotics are found in fermented dairy products such as sour cream and yogurt, or can also be purchased over-the-counter and added to foods as a supplement. Not all sour cream varieties contain probiotics -- look for a label that says "contains active cultures. Probiotics are live microorganisms that include dairy cultures, enzymes and bacteria.

Your body naturally hosts billions of bacteria that support digestion and absorption of multiple nutrients. They also help your immune system by creating a competitive environment that makes it harder for foreign bacteria to survive and reproduce.

Consuming probiotics adds even more support to these digestive "good guys. Not all sour cream varieties contain probiotics, although it is a fermented dairy product. This savory ingredient can turn any meal into a feast.

But did you know that it's good for your health, too? Rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, calcium, phosphorus and selenium, sour cream has its place in a balanced diet.

Sour cream is made by fermenting cream with live, active cultures from lactic acid bacteria, according to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and other fermented foods contain live cultures, too. Although the microorganisms in sour cream are usually destroyed during processing, some brands like Green Valley add probiotics back in.

Sour cream's calories and nutritional value depend on the brand and fat content. According to the USDA , 1 cup of regular sour cream provides:. Most of the calories in sour cream come from fat. Light varieties have as little as 29 grams of fat and calories per cup, according to the USDA.

Their carb content, though, tends to be higher. You can also opt for fat-free sour cream, which has calories per cup and 36 grams of carbs, according to the USDA. Sour cream is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12 and other essential nutrients that support overall health. Here's what it can do for you. Rich in calcium and phosphorus, this dairy food promotes strong bones and teeth. Calcium supports the bones and may help prevent osteoporosis and fractures, according to the National Institutes of Health NIH.

Phosphorus, which is the second most abundant mineral in the human body, also supports bone formation, energy production and protein synthesis, per the U. National Library of Medicine. One of the most important health benefits of sour cream lies in its high vitamin B12 levels. The vitamin, which occurs only in animal foods and fortified plant-based foods , contributes to DNA synthesis and helps your body produce red blood cells.

It also plays a crucial role in brain function, the NIH notes. Your body needs B12 to metabolize protein, enzymes and other nutrients. Drain and place in a stand mixing bowl. Mix until smooth, about 1 minute. Heat milk and margarine in a saucepan, until margarine melts.

Slowly pour milk mixture to potatoes and add sour cream, pepper and salt. Using the whipping attachment, whip for 1 minute or until fluffy. Serve warm topped with chives. Nutrition Facts per serving : calories, 10 grams fat, milligrams sodium, 31 grams carbohydrate, 3 grams fiber, 7 grams protein. Skip to main content.

The Secrets of Sour Cream.