The Benefits of Fermented Foods
- November 18th, 2022
- in Nutrition, Wellness Education
Fermented foods are a great way to keep your gut in check. Fermentation initiates the production of healthy living bacteria known as probiotics. Probiotics help fight off harmful bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthier gut microbiota. Fermented foods are products such as kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut that undergo fermentation.
What is the gut microbiota..? It is a system of microorganisms in the digestive tract that protects your intestines against harmful microorganisms. A healthy gut microbiota enhances your overall health as it affects your immune system, inflammation, mental health, and digestive system and can decrease the risk of obesity and diabetes. Prebiotics are key to enhancing the effectiveness of the probiotic. Prebiotics are the food that the probiotics feed on to perform better and continue to multiply. Prebiotics can be found in plant fibers and are high in foods such as onions, garlic, and asparagus.
Overall, fermented foods contain probiotics and many minerals that support healthy gut microbiota, contributing to various health conditions. But this may lead you to think… can I just take a probiotic supplement every day? Not only are fermented foods a natural source providing further minerals and nutrients, but they also provide you with the greatest number of probiotics as well. Did you know that 4-6 ounces of fermented vegetables have around 10 trillion bacteria, whereas the average supplement only contains around 10 billion bacteria? You can enjoy these foods by adding fermented vegetables to your favorite salad or adding sauerkraut on top of your next hot dog! Not only do fermented foods taste good, but they benefit your overall health in various ways!
Try your hand at making your own fermented foods:
Kimchi:
https://revolutionfermentation.com/en/blogs/fermented-vegetables/napa-vegan-kimchi-recipe/
Fermented Vegetables:
https://shahzadidevje.com/diy-lacto-fermented-mixed-vegetables/
Fermented Salsa:
https://revolutionfermentation.com/en/blogs/fermented-vegetables/lacto-fermented-tomato-salsa-easy/
Sauerkraut:
https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-homemade-sauerkraut-in-a-mason-jar-193124
by: Camryn Centracchio, Human Nutrition and Dietetics Intern, Coordinated Program in Dietetics, University of Alabama