Q&A with a registered dietitian: Maddie Alm

Meet Maddie Alm, M.S., R.D., an athlete and registered dietitian (RD).

She is a Colorado native, an All-American runner from the University of Colorado Boulder, and a 2x USA Championships qualifier. Her passion for sports nutrition began when changing her nutrition led to drastic improvements in her performance. She’s a dietitian for the pros. She helps other elite athletes learn how important it is to prioritize nutrition so they can reach their full potential. You can find Maddie at her website, www.fuelingforward.com, and on Instagram as @fueling_forward.

We sat down with Maddie to ask a few questions about probiotics and how to stay healthy!

Q: What are some of the benefits of probiotics?

A: Probiotics can help improve gut health. Beneficial bacteria are an important part of digestion and nutrient absorption.  They can also help strengthen the immune system because bacteria are the first line of defense against organisms.  Some research suggests it can help with mood and mental state. There are different strains that have been shown to be beneficial for IBS and other digestive issues. 

Q: What Probiotic foods do you recommend? 

A: Fermented foods are going to be the highest in naturally occurring probiotics. They also often contain fiber, which helps feed the beneficial bacteria to keep them healthy and thriving. Some examples include kimchi, yogurt, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh, dairy, and water kefir. 

Q: What are some ways to support your immune system?

A: Adequate protein intake. Immune cells are made from protein. It’s important to consume lean sources of protein. Also getting Vitamin C, found in foods like bell peppers and brussel sprouts. Vitamin D can be found in foods such as  mushrooms, eggs, salmon. The majority of Vitamin D we absorb from the sun, although that can vary depending on the season, location and skin tone. Try to spend at least 30 minutes a day outside.

Q: What are some other ways to stay healthy?

A: Other ways to stay healthy include getting 30 minutes of physical activity daily, such as brisk walking, spinning, or yoga. Drinking plenty of water is key for flushing harmful bacteria out before they can cause illness. Getting 7-9 hours of restful sleep per night also helps reinforce the immune system.