Does Medicare Cover a Kidney Transplant?
Key takeaways
Medicare covers most services related to organ transplantation performed in approved hospitals, including heart, intestine, kidney, liver, and cornea transplants.
Medicare Part A covers inpatient services during hospitalization. Part B covers doctor's services related to the transplant, and Part D helps cover prescription drugs needed for transplantation, including immunosuppressant drugs.
Medicare generally covers almost all costs related to Medicare-approved organ transplants, including pre-transplant services, surgery, follow-up care, immunosuppressant drugs, and medical care for the organ donor.
In this article, we'll discuss when Medicare covers organ transplants, what you need to know about Medicare coverage, and what out-of-pocket costs you can expect for organ transplantation.
Which Medicare part covers a kidney transplant?
Medicare Part A is hospital insurance. It covers any necessary services related to the following transplants:
heart
lung
kidney
pancreas
intestine
liver
In addition, Medicare also covers other transplants that aren't organ transplants. This includes the following transplants:
cornea
stem cell
bone marrow
Under Part A, covered services include most inpatient services during hospitalization, such as laboratory testing, physical exams, room and board, and pre-and post-op care for you and your organ donor.
On the other hand, Medicare Part B is medical insurance, which means it covers any doctor's services related to your transplant.
Services covered under Part B include those related to your diagnosis and recovery, such as doctor's or specialist's visits, laboratory testing, or certain prescription drugs.
Part B will also cover these services for your organ donor when necessary.
Part C
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) covers all the services listed above in Part A and Part B. Some Part C plans also cover prescription drugs and possibly additional health perks, like fitness memberships and meal services.
Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans (SNPs) are plans that offer coordinated services for people with chronic or disabling conditions.
These plans can be especially beneficial to people who have certain conditions that may require an organ transplant, such as end stage renal disease and chronic heart failure.
Part D
Medicare Part D helps cover prescription drugs needed for organ transplantation.
While Part D coverage varies by plan, all Medicare prescription drug plans must cover immunosuppressant drugs. These medications, which weaken your immune system to make it less likely that your body will reject a new organ, are required for transplantation.
Most prescription drug plans also cover other medications that may be necessary for organ transplant recovery, such as pain relievers, antidepressants, and others.
When does Medicare cover organ transplants?
Once a doctor has determined that a Medicare beneficiary requires a covered organ transplant, the program should cover the procedure.
Medicare doesn't set any criteria for covered organ transplants, but exceptions to this are people undergoing intestine or pancreas transplants must have their transplants at a hospital with a Medicare-approved liver and kidney transplant program, respectively.
In addition, organ transplant programs generally have eligibility requirements. What these requirements are depends on the type of transplant and may involve limitations on age or people living with certain health conditions.
How much does an organ transplant cost with and without Medicare?
According to a 2020 research report on transplant costs in the United States, the average costs for organ transplants include:
Heart transplant: $1,664,800
Lung transplant: $1,295,900 (double lung) or $929,600 (single lung)
Intestine transplant: $1,240,700
Liver transplant: $878,400
Kidney transplant: $442,500
Pancreas transplant: $408,800
Medicare pays for most services and costs associated with Medicare-approved organ transplants. Services include:
pretransplant services, such as testing, lab work, and exams
surgery
follow-up services
immunosuppressant and other necessary prescription drugs, in some cases
Medicare also pays for all costs related to finding a donated organ and all medical care for the organ donor, such as doctor's visits, surgery, and other necessary medical services.
While Medicare covers almost all organ transplantation costs, you'll still owe out-of-pocket costs.
Out-of-pocket costs for organ transplant in 2025
Type of cost Medicare
Part A Medicare
Part B Medicare
Part C Medicare
Part D
Monthly premium $0 to $518,
depending on your work history $185,
depending on your income depends on the plan you choose depends on the plan you choose
Deductible $1,676 per benefit period $257 per year depends on the plan you choose $0 to $590,
depending on the plan you choose
Copay and coinsurance coinsurance of 0% to 100% per day, depending on how many days you stay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered services depends on the plan you choose coinsurance or copays depend on the plan you choose
You may have other costs associated with your organ transplant surgery that Medicare doesn't cover. These out-of-pocket costs may include:
transportation and lodging for the surgery
child care or other expenses at home
potential loss of income
What if you can't afford a kidney transplant?
Your Medicare coverage should significantly lower your out-of-pocket cost for your transplant. In addition, you may be able to lower your remaining out-of-pocket costs by enrolling in a Medicare supplement plan or Medigap.
Medigap helps cover Original Medicare deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Some Medigap plans also cover Part B excess charges and foreign travel costs. That said, you cannot use Medigap with Part C.
Your transplant provider may also offer a payment plan so that you can spread the cost over a longer period of time. In addition, if your income falls below a certain threshold, you may also qualify for Medicaid.
In addition, the American Transplant Foundation lists several organizations that offer resources on fundraising for a transplant.
Are liver transplant patients eligible for Medicare?
If you are not eligible for Medicare but anticipate that you require an organ transplant, your eligibility for Medicare depends on either your age or the type of transplant that you need.
Anyone ages 65 and over is automatically eligible for Medicare, and by law, no insurance plan can deny you based on a preexisting condition.
That said, if you are younger than 65 and you need a transplant, you can only qualify for Medicare if you are living with end stage renal disease (ESRD) and are undergoing dialysis. Other types of needed organ transplants do not count for this exception.
Takeaway
An organ transplant can be an expensive surgery, but Medicare generally covers beneficiaries for almost all services under their plan.
Part A covers most hospital-related services, while Part B covers most medical-related services.
Part D can help cover prescription drug costs for immunosuppressants you may need to take before or after the transplant, while Medigap can help tackle some of the out-of-pocket costs associated with each Medicare plan.
Contact your doctor or healthcare team for more information on what Medicare will cover for your organ transplant surgery and what to expect.
The information on this website may assist you in making personal decisions about insurance, but it is not intended to provide advice regarding the purchase or use of any insurance or insurance products. Healthline Media does not transact the business of insurance in any manner and is not licensed as an insurance company or producer in any U.S. jurisdiction. Healthline Media does not recommend or endorse any third parties that may transact the business of insurance.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CNET
11 minutes ago
- CNET
9 Foods for Relieving Headaches and Migraines, According to Doctors and Dietitians
June is Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, which got us thinking: Are there any foods that can help with this type of head pain? "The most important thing I tell patients is that migraines are highly individualized," says Dr. Nicholas Church, a board-certified member of the American Board of Family Medicine and the American Academy of Family Physicians. "What helps one person may not help another, and what's a trigger for one might be therapeutic for someone else." A holistic approach is essential because hydration, exercise, sleep and stress management can all play a part in controlling migraines and headaches. With this in mind, Church recommends that patients keep a "headache diary" to track these factors, including the foods they eat or avoid, to see if there are patterns. While no single food or diet change will cure headaches or migraines entirely, they may help provide relief. These are the foods experts recommend you consider. 1. Omega-3-rich foods like flaxseed and salmon "I recommend omega-3-rich fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines," says Church. "These fish are high in anti-inflammatory fats (EPA and DHA), which can reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the vascular system and brain." Citing a 2021 randomized controlled trial, Church explains that because migraines are believed to involve inflammatory and vascular changes in the body, omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce their frequency or intensity when eaten regularly. "The study's findings also align with earlier data showing that omega-3s help regulate prostaglandins, which play a role in headache inflammation," says Church. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that impact bodily functions like inflammation, pain and menstrual cramps. Fatty fish also contain vitamin D, coenzyme Q10 and B vitamins like riboflavin, which support healthy brain metabolism. Kiran Campbell, a registered dietitian nutritionist at MyNetDiary, also mentions a 2024 meta-analysis revealing that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the frequency, duration and severity of migraines. She adds that plant-based sources include chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed and algae oil. Example foods: salmon, mackerel, sardines, chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed and algae oil Chia and flax seeds are great sources of omega-3s. mikroman6/Getty Images 2. Magnesium-rich foods like kale and pumpkin seeds Daniel Redwood, the director of Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine at the University of Western States, explains, "Attention to the potential importance of magnesium in migraine grew in prominence with the discovery (Ramadan, 1989) that people with migraines had lower levels of this mineral in their red blood cells, serum and brain tissue." Dr. Paul Daidone, medical director at True Self Recovery, seconds this, stating that food rich in magnesium -- like pumpkin seeds, spinach and avocado -- may reduce the severity and occurrence of migraines. He cites a 2022 study examining the potential connection between magnesium deficiency and migraine, which describes how magnesium deficiency is implicated in migraine attacks due to processes like cortical spreading depression, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalance and electrolyte imbalance. "Although clinical evidence of the acute dietary magnesium deficiency as a direct migraine trigger remains limited, scientists are investigating the involvement of intra- and extracellular magnesium levels in migraine pathogenesis," Daidone explains. Dr. Schonze Del Pozo, a board-certified internal medicine physician and medical director at East Sacramento Concierge, states that many of the patients she sees for headaches and migraines are deficient in magnesium. She also cites a 2012 study in the Journal of Neural Transmission entitled "Why all migraine patients should be treated with magnesium." As a result, she recommends a healthy diet of magnesium-rich dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, broccoli and Swiss chard. Example foods: pumpkin seeds, spinach and avocado, kale, broccoli and Swiss chard 3. Ginger "Many swear by ginger as a way to help with migraines," states Dr. Maria Knöbel, a general practitioner and medical director of Medical Cert UK. "Studies have proven that ginger reduces nausea and can decrease the inflammation that leads to migraine pain. Ginger has helped patients during my practice, whether they take it as ginger tea or in supplement form." She references a 2014 study that found ginger powder to be as effective as the medication sumatriptan in treating acute migraine attacks, but with fewer side effects. Ginger tea may be especially beneficial because, Knöbel states, "It's important to drink enough water, as well as eat ginger. Drinking enough water might stop your migraine from getting any worse." Church also recommends ginger because it contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerol. "I've had patients find relief from migraines or migraine-related nausea using ginger tea, powder or chews," he explains. A 2019 study also found that 400mg of ginger extract, in addition to 100mg of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen, may help treat migraine attacks. Ginger tea combines the benefits of ginger with the hydration of water.4. Nuts and seeds like walnuts and sunflower seeds "Another group of foods I recommend are nuts and seeds, including almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and walnuts," Church states. "Like leafy greens, these are rich in magnesium, and some also provide vitamin E, which has been shown to help with menstrual migraines and migraines with aura." A 2015 study reflected this. Example foods: almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and walnuts 5. Cinnamon "Cinnamon contains a high amount of antioxidants that may also reduce headache frequency," Campbell explains. "Stir it into your morning oatmeal or tea, or bake it into muffins and breads." She cites a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled 2020 trial, stating, "Studies suggest that cinnamon supplementation may lower inflammation, cutting down on migraine frequency, severity and duration." The antioxidants in cinnamon may help treat headaches and migraines. FreshSplash/Getty Images 6. Foods rich in vitamin B2 like eggs and lean meats "A well-known [1998] randomized controlled trial found that 400 mg of riboflavin daily significantly reduced migraine frequency and severity over a three-month period," Church says. Though this high dose usually comes from supplementation, riboflavin-rich foods support the same metabolic processes in migraine prevention. These foods can include eggs, dairy and lean meats. "Riboflavin is essential for mitochondrial energy production, and many researchers believe that migraines stem in part from dysfunction in energy metabolism within brain cells," Church adds. Redwood adds, "There exists a small but promising body of research on the effectiveness of some nutritional supplements for migraines, especially riboflavin (vitamin B2), coenzyme Q10 and magnesium. The first research-based indicator of riboflavin's potential as a migraine treatment appeared in a small 1946 article by a medical physician, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, which reported dramatic effectiveness from what would now be considered low-dose B2 supplements." A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis found that supplementation of 400mg/day of vitamin B2 for three months affected the duration, frequency and pain score of migraine attacks. Example foods: Eggs, dairy and lean meats 7. Turmeric Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric and, according to Campbell, is "high in antioxidant power and shines especially when paired with omega-3s." To add it to your diet, consider sprinkling it into smoothies, curries or teas. Campbell references a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled 2021 trial that concluded, "Present findings revealed that n-3 fatty acids and curcumin co-supplementation can be suggested as a promising new approach in migraine headache management." However, more studies are needed. When combined with omega-3s, turmeric may help with migraine headache management. Rawlstock/Getty Images 8. Whole grains like oats and quinoa Church mentions that whole grains like quinoa, brown rice and oats may also be beneficial since they "provide a steady release of glucose, preventing blood sugar crashes that can trigger headaches, and are good sources of fiber, B vitamins and trace minerals." He cites a 2023 cross-sectional study of 12,710 participants with all data collected from a 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. It found that for every 10 grams of fiber added to the diet, there was an 11% reduction in the odds of having severe headaches or migraines. "By providing magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, whole grains support brain health, oxygen delivery and a stable glucose supply, which are all relevant to migraine prevention," concludes Church. A 2023 comprehensive review also found that curcumin is a promising candidate for preventing and controlling migraines due to its anti‑inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-protein aggregate and analgesic effects. However, additional studies are needed. Example foods: quinoa, brown rice and oats 9. Water-rich foods like cucumber and watermelon Dr. Kimberly Idoko, a developmental neurobiologist and board-certified neurologist, reveals that dehydration can also trigger headaches, which is why staying hydrated can significantly improve migraine treatments. "Water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon and citrus fruits also help you stay hydrated," adds Church. To prevent dehydration-caused headaches or migraines, enjoy more water-rich foods like watermelon. Anucha Muphasa/500px/Getty Images Foods that may trigger migraines and headaches Chocolate, cheese and alcohol: "In one [2007] study of over 500 migraine sufferers, 44% reported at least one food as a trigger. Among the most common triggers were chocolate, cheese and alcohol, " reveals Dr. Adam Lowenstein, a board-certified plastic surgeon who runs the Migraine Surgery Specialty Center. Gluten: "Gluten can be a highly inflammatory food substance, especially among those who are prone to sensitivities or gluten allergy," explains Trista Best, a registered dietitian at The Candida Diet, environmental health specialist and adjunct nutrition professor. "This inflammation causes a host of health conditions, including migraines." When it comes to caffeine, moderation is "The most fascinating study I've seen on the role of nutrition in the treatment of headaches (Hering-Hanit and Gadoth, 2003) was published in Cephalalgia, the premier headache journal. Over a 5-year period, doctors at a neurology clinic in Israel treated 36 children and adolescents (average age 9) with severe daily or near-daily headaches who drank an average of 11 quarts of cola drinks per week," says Redwood. "At the end of a gradual withdrawal period (because too speedy a withdrawal can trigger even worse headaches), 33 of these 36 young people were headache-free, a truly stunning result. Nearly all cola drinks contain substantial amounts of caffeine (Chou and Bell, 2007)." Note: 11 quarts of cola per week is extreme, and the average person doesn't consume this much caffeine. Moderate caffeine intake is still OK, according to Amelia Ti, a registered dietitian and diabetes educator in New York City who is also part of CNET's medical review board. However, when it comes to caffeine, Church notes, "Caffeine, used strategically, can enhance the absorption of pain relievers and constrict dilated blood vessels in the brain, which may ease migraine pain. This is why many over-the-counter headache medications include it. Studies have shown that 40–100 mg of caffeine (the amount in a small cup of coffee or strong tea) can reduce migraine or tension headache pain. But, chronic overuse can lead to rebound headaches, so moderation is key." Added sugars and highly processed foods: "Research has shown that people following a 'Western' diet, which includes substantial amounts of added sugars and other highly processed foods, are at greater than average risk for developing migraines, while the risk is significantly lower than average for those following a healthier diet," states Redwood. Mercola adds that in addition to adding foods rich in specific nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins, you'll want to eliminate triggers like processed foods that contain nitrates, MSG, added sugars or yeast.
Gizmodo
11 minutes ago
- Gizmodo
Amazon Isn't Waiting for Prime Day, This Three-Port USB-C Charger Is Almost Free
Anyone who has wrestled with a tangle of cables and chargers is familiar with the frustration all too well. Modern living means multiple devices and each one seems to have its own power source. That's why Amazon's latest deal is such a breath of fresh air: the Anker 65W three-port charger is available at an all-time low price and it's a smart buy if you're looking to simplify their power needs. Right now, the Anker Nano II 65W three-port charger is on sale for just $29, thanks to an extra coupon that brings the price down from its original $55. That's a solid 48% off the original price and it puts this powerful charger within easy reach for most shoppers. It truly is the single charger that most people will ever need for their daily tech. See at Amazon The selling point of the Anker Nano II 65W is its combination of speed, versatility, and portability. At full load, a single device plugged into the main USB-C port can receive up to 65W of power—enough to fast charge a 13-inch MacBook Pro at full speed. When several devices are connected, the charger intelligently divides power between the three ports to give each device its optimal charge without throttling. That means you can charge your phone, tablet, and laptop all at the same time. The Anker charger is about the same size as an AirPods Pro case so you can just slip it in a bag or even a pocket. In spite of the small size, it packs a heavy punch courtesy of innovative GaN II technology. This latest generation of gallium nitride (GaN) technology offers a 100% increase in operating frequency which is an innovative stacked architecture and an enhanced circuit board. At just $29, it's an absolute bargain especially when you consider the time, space, and frustration it can save you on a daily basis. See at Amazon
CNET
11 minutes ago
- CNET
12 Probiotic Rich Foods To Keep Your Gut Healthy
Many people talk about probiotics as supplements, but you can actually get these microorganisms through your diet by eating foods high in probiotics. Probiotics can provide benefits such as helping with chronic health issues like IBS and IBD, supporting digestion and maintaining a healthy balance in your gut microbiome by encouraging beneficial bacteria to grow. Fortunately, many probiotic foods are already in your fridge or pantry. You can also find them easily at your local grocery store, so consider adding a few to your next shopping list. What are probiotics? "Probiotics are live microorganisms, often called 'good bacteria,' that help maintain a healthy balance in your gut by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and suppressing harmful ones," said Gillean Barkyoumb, a registered dietitian and nutrition expert at Plexus Worldwide, which sells dietary supplements. "Probiotics are commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut, as well as in dietary supplements," she added. "Regularly consuming probiotics can support digestion, boost your immune system and may even improve mood and overall well-being." To determine which foods high in probiotics are right for you, we compiled a helpful list below. But before you change your diet, make sure to consult your doctor first. Taste-Testing 6 Apple Cider Vinegar Drinks Taste-Testing 6 Apple Cider Vinegar Drinks Click to unmute Video Player is loading. Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Next playlist item Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 1:32 Loaded : 6.43% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 1:32 Share Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Taste-Testing 6 Apple Cider Vinegar Drinks What are the best foods high in probiotics to eat for a healthy gut? If you want more probiotics in your diet, below are 12 excellent probiotic-rich foods. In addition to these foods, you might also try probiotic supplements. Look for labeling that reads, "contains live cultures" or "contains active cultures" in these common probiotic foods. 1. Yogurt A staple probiotic-rich food, go for yogurt with live and active cultures. Some yogurts are specifically marketed for their probiotic content or to help improve digestion. Yogurt usually has L. acidophilus bacteria, which can promote the growth of good bacteria in your gut. Yogurt is a great option because it's widely available, comes in a variety of flavors to suit your taste and can be eaten straight from the container.2. Kimchi Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made by fermenting vegetables with probiotic lactic acid bacteria, so it can give you that probiotic punch. It's made with healthy ingredients like vegetables (most commonly Napa cabbage, carrots, scallions and radish), garlic, ginger, red pepper powder, and other spices. It makes a wonderful side and is traditionally served with steamed rice. Kimchi is associated with research regarding anti-cancer, anti-obesity, colorectal health, cholesterol reduction, anti-aging, brain health, immune health and skin health properties. 3. Pickles You may be surprised to learn that pickles can contain probiotics. You have to make sure you buy fermented pickles, which are usually found in the refrigerated section of the health food aisle. Some brands even advertise probiotic content. They trend under the term "healthy pickles," but be sure to read the nutritional labels to make sure they contain probiotics. You can even make them at home. Some people drink or use the juice the pickles are fermented in. Note that jarred pickles tend to be high in sodium.4. Sourdough Sourdough starter contains lactic acid bacteria. The starter is the environment where yeast and good bacteria grow by consuming water and flour. Natural prebiotics and probiotics are listed in research as one of the benefits of sourdough bread. It's also linked to better blood glucose control, reduced cholesterol, a lower risk of diabetes, reduced cardiovascular disease risk and improved weight control. It also makes a pretty good sandwich bread. 5. Kefir Kefir is a fermented milk made using kefir grain. It starts as a normal cow's or goat's milk, and then a grain-like yeast and lactic acid bacterial colony called kefir is added to the milk. The mixture is left to ferment for around a day and then the milk is filtered from the grains, creating the kefir drink. The resulting drink is a powerful probiotic that actually packs more probiotics than yogurt.6. Kombucha Kombucha is "a go-to for fermented botanicals," Barkyoumb said. "This magic potion has been dubbed the 'immortal health elixir' because of its ability to support whole-body health and wellness while preventing illnesses. High-quality kombucha is filled with probiotics and amino acids that will help your body digest sugar, and is also a great natural hangover cure." This drink is a fermented tea, so you're getting the health benefits of tea with the probiotic boost of a fermented beverage. It's made by adding strains of bacteria, yeast and sugar to either black or green tea, which leads to the drink's probiotic-happy environment. It ferments for about a week or more until it grows a mushroom texture on top. The mushroom is filtered out to make new kombucha. 7. Sauerkraut This German comfort food is actually fermented cabbage made by lactofermenting the vegetable in its brine with salt. As part of the traditional fermentation process, probiotics are in the end product. However, this is another product where you have to specifically buy probiotic sauerkraut or make your own. Many brands use vinegar and sugar or are pasteurized, which reduces the growth of bacteria and kills probiotics. Canned sauerkraut is usually made with vinegar or it's pasteurized (or both).8. Miso soup This Japanese food is served as a side to many meals. Miso is a paste typically made from fermented soybeans and works as a food condiment to make sauces, spreads and soup stock. Miso soup uses this paste for the stock. Because miso is a fermented food, it packs the probiotic punch. Miso soup works great with larger meals but it also makes a nice, light lunch on its own. 9. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar is twice-fermented apple juice. It has made the rounds for years as a popular health supplement. It has natural probiotics from the fermentation process. Its benefits need further research, but people also use it for everything from calming acid reflux to weight loss. It has a strong flavor, so if you don't like taking it directly, add it to salad dressing, marinades or pickling liquid. Getty Images/CNET 10. Some cheese Certain types of cheese have probiotics. For instance, aged cheeses that are not heated afterward tend to have probiotics. Examples include Swiss, Gouda, cheddar, Edam, Gruyère, cottage cheese and provolone. The great news is that many popular cheese types have probiotics, including a healthy bowl of cottage cheese topped with fruit. 11. Pickled vegetables Along the same lines as kimchi and pickles, you can also look for any pickled vegetables that specifically list having probiotics. One idea is to look into lacto-fermented escabeche, a pickled dish from Mexico that can contain a wide variety of vegetables. Or you can make a fermented giardiniera, an Italian pickle relish. Using fermented pickled vegetables is also a wonderful way to shop locally and preserve vegetables for use out of season. Tomekbudujedomek/Getty Images 12. Buttermilk Buttermilk may seem like a drink out of Little House on the Prairie, but traditional buttermilk can be an excellent source of probiotics. Buttermilk covers different types of fermented dairy beverages, but traditional buttermilk is liquid skimmed out of the butter-making process. The trick is to avoid cultured buttermilk, the most common type in supermarkets that usually doesn't have probiotics.
