Fermented foods are becoming really popular, but do they actually help your health? Let’s explore how eating foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir might benefit you.
Around 13 years ago, Donna Schwenk was going through a tough time. At 41 and pregnant with her third child, she developed severe health problems, leading to an early C-section. Her baby was born tiny, and Schwenk herself was dealing with diabetes, high blood pressure, and extreme fatigue. She needed a way to recover and help her newborn thrive.
In her search for answers, she stumbled upon a book about kefir, a fermented milk drink rich in bacteria, and started using it. Remarkably, in just a month, her baby’s weight improved significantly, and within 12 weeks, Schwenk’s own health issues started to resolve. She felt well for the first time in years and credited her recovery to the beneficial bacteria in fermented foods.
Schwenk’s story is not an isolated case. There’s growing interest in the role fermented foods play in our health. By supporting gut health, these foods might improve digestion, immunity, weight management, and even mood. Recent studies suggest that the gut is central to overall health, affecting everything from nutrient absorption to emotional well-being, since the gut is closely connected to our immune system and even our “second brain.”
Fermented foods are being included in many cultures’ diets, and more health professionals are encouraging their consumption. Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder, for instance, advises her clients to eat fermented veggies daily for better energy, skin, and weight management. There’s emerging evidence showing how a good balance of bacteria in your gut can lead to overall better health.
Problems can arise when the balance of good and bad bacteria is off, often due to diets high in sugar and refined foods, stress, or long-term medication use. These issues can manifest as fatigue, skin disorders, and other health conditions. Fermented foods can help restore this balance by offering a variety of beneficial bacteria strains.
Many people lean towards probiotic pills, but real food sources like kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha may offer more diverse strains of beneficial bacteria. The idea is to enjoy a variety of fermented foods to enhance your gut health.
Ancient practices of fermenting foods were mainly for preservation. Yet, these foods, rich in naturally occurring acids, also aid in digestion. Fermented foods play a big role in traditional diets worldwide, with examples like Korea’s kimchi and Japan’s miso soup.
However, it’s important not to overdo it. Start slowly with small amounts and gradually introduce different types to avoid stomach issues. Also, opt for products with raw, live cultures rather than those that have been pasteurized.
Feeling adventurous? Try making your own fermented foods at home with simple ingredients like vegetables and salt. It’s an easy way to enjoy healthy foods and support your gut health.
