Do you consider yogurt to be a staple item in your kitchen? Yogurt is one of the many different types of foods that have undergone the fermentation process. The process of fermentation can be done for a number of different reasons including:
- To preserve foods and beverages
- Increase their flavor
- Decrease toxins within foods/beverages
Fermentation is a process in which microorganisms, such as bacteria, break down certain parts of the food, and turn it into other products. Aside from the unique burst of flavor that fermented substances have to offer, they can also help to boost a person’s overall health.
The Link Between Fermented Foods and Probiotics
The presence of microorganisms during the fermentation process is one of the main reasons why fermented foods can be so beneficial to a person’s health. These microorganisms, which are known as probiotics, are incredibly vital to creating a healthy and strong digestive tract. A diverse microbiome filled with beneficial bacteria is incredibly essential in reducing potentially-harmful symptoms in the body such as inflammation, digestive ailments, and mood swings. When our body becomes overpowered by harmful bacteria in the gut, it can lead to more serious issues such as chronic inflammation and leaky-gut syndrome.
However, it is important to keep in mind that not all fermented foods are going to contain probiotics. Fermented foods can be made without the beneficial microorganisms, so it is important that you take note of the ingredients in the fermented foods you are consuming. This will ensure you are reaping the maximum amount of benefits from fermented foods. Fermented foods that have undergone the process with microorganisms tend to have a more carbonated look to them, and sometimes, an indicator will be found on the label of the food.
Probiotics can also be found in our supplement for bloating called Probiotic Renu. Probiotic Renu is a bloating supplement that contains both bifido probiotic cultures and lacto probiotic cultures.Taking a probiotic supplement that helps with bloating can be a great way to support your digestive tract beyond your meals. Since fermented foods help to strengthen your gut, there are several other health benefits one receives due to the connection between the gut and the rest of the body’s systems.
The Potential Health Benefits One Can Receive From Fermented Foods
Easier to Digest
The fermentation process helps to improve certain aspects of the substances we are consuming on a daily basis. For example, sugars and starches are naturally-occuring in the foods we consume, and when these substances are broken down during the fermentation process, they become easier on our body to digest. This can make all the difference for those that experience adverse issues such as constipation.
A Decrease in Anti-nutrients
The fermentation process also minimizes the amount of anti-nutrients in certain foods. Anti-nutrients are compounds found in many foods that make it harder on the body to absorb the beneficial nutrients from the substances. Certain enzymes are activated throughout the fermentation process that minimizes the presence of anti-nutrients in foods.
Decreases Inflammation
Inflammation, which can negatively impact a person’s mental state, their weight, and their energy levels, can occur when a person does not have a strong microbiome. Adding fermented foods into your diet is a great way to increase your microbial diversity. A person’s microbiome is made up of the foods they consume, and when a person prioritizes a diverse diet filled with nutritious foods, they are more likely to experience the benefits of a healthy microbiome. A decrease in inflammation is just one of these beneficial effects.
Stabilize Mood
A person’s gut and brain are intimately connected. When one system is experiencing issues, it can negatively impact the other. Due to this connection, fermented foods are not only beneficial for a person’s gut health, but their brain as well! Our brains are just as fueled by the foods we consume as our bodies are. Fermented foods can be a great way to introduce a nutrient-boosting substance into the mix.
While fermented foods have always been around, due to their rise in popularity in recent years, they can be found in a variety of different ways throughout the grocery store aisles. However, fermented foods can also be made at home!
The Fermented Substances We Believe Are Kitchen Staples
There’s a variety of different fermented foods and beverages out there that all contain that amazing beneficial boost of bacteria! The following bullet points are some of our favorite fermented foods we believe everyone should keep on hand!
- Yogurt
Yogurt is a tried and true kitchen staple that can be used in a variety of different ways. It can act as a marinating substance for meat, as a base for a well-balanced breakfast parfait, and even as the main star in your next tzatziki sauce. Due to its versatility, yogurt can be a very reliable fermented food to keep in your fridge.
- Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, which is basically just fermented cabbage, is so simple yet so tasty! This fermented food can transform just about any plate of food you whip up in the kitchen. Sauerkraut that is properly stored can last up to six months in the fridge meaning you would only have to buy it once for a lifetime of deliciousness.
- Tempeh
Tempeh is a fermented food that can be a great alternative for those who do not wish to eat meat. Tempeh contains a nutty earthy flavor that allows it to work well in a variety of different dishes. Due to its ability to absorb sauces, tempeh can work well as a substitute for dishes such as orange chicken or teriyaki chicken.
- Kombucha
Are you ever in need of a beneficial beverage that isn’t water? If this is you, kombucha will be your new best friend. Kombucha is a fermented tea that has undergone the fermentation process giving it a sour and carbonation-like taste. Due to its high nutritional value and digestive benefits, kombucha can be a great way to give you that carbonated taste without having to reach for that processed soda.
These are just a few of several different types of fermented foods that you can add to your daily routine. Whether it is the shining star or supporting act in your meals, these fermented foods will work hard to ensure your gut and overall health stays strong.