7 Reasons to Include Fermented Foods in Your Diet

What is fermented food?

Fermented foods contain probiotics, which is a friendly type of bacteria that can benefit our health. Probiotics are added to foods during the fermentation process to convert the sugars and carbs in food into alcohol or acids.

Fermented foods include:

• yoghurt
• pickles
• kefir
• buttermilk
• sauerkraut
• kimchi
• miso
• natto
• tempeh
• salami
• kombucha and more.

Why is fermented food beneficial for our health?

Fermented food can help with:

1. Aid in digestion

Probiotics found in fermented foods can help maintain a good bacteria balance in our gut, which is needed for our digestive system to function properly.

2. Prevent colon and bladder cancer

Probiotics has show to improve the health of our intestines and urinary system, keeping the balance of good vs bad bacteria, and may help to prevent colon and bladder cancerBoost immune system, prevent common colds and infections

3. Lowers blood cholesterol and blood pressure

It can benefit our heart health by decreasing blood cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

4. Increase vitamin B level in body

Probiotics can aid in the absorption and production of vitamin B in our body, which is effective in boosting our concentration and improving our mood.

5. Prevent side effects of antibiotics

Fermented food is especially good for people who are taking antibiotics. Fermented foods can replenish the good bacteria in our gut flushed out by the antibiotics, and prevent side effects of antibiotics such as diarrhoea and abdominal cramps.

6. Alleviate symptoms of lactose intolerance and other conditions of the gut

7. Promote general health and wellbeing

Certain fermented foods such as kimchi, miso and yoghurt are rich in vitamins and minerals, which can contribute to our general health and wellbeing.

Side effects and toxicity

Fermented foods are general safe. However, certain people may experience side effects such as headache, bloating and constipation. Certain strains of probiotics may cause allergic reactions in some people.