A newly discovered probiotic drink could help prevent the flu, according to scientists.
But the drink has one very surprising, and less-than-appetizing ingredient.
Research suggests the immune-boosting powers of Lactobacillus bacteria could help fight the flu virus,The Daily Mail reports.
These Lactobacillus bugs are found in Japanese pickled turnip.
Scientists have tested the probiotic drink on mice with encouraging results. They’re now starting to test it on humans.
The key to the Lactobacillus bacteria’s protective qualities could be a layer of sugars called exopolysaccharides, which are known to have immune boosting effects.
When the drink was tested on mice, the special bacteria led the rodents’ immune systems to create more flu-fighting antibodies, the Mail reports.
Meanwhile, scientists in Europe and Britain are reportedly preparing to start large scale trials of a universal flu vaccine, and have predicted a new “Holy Grail” vaccine granting lifelong protection against the virus could be available within five years.