Fermented foods are everywhere these days, and many people, like Donna Schwenk, believe they offer significant health benefits. Thirteen years ago, when Schwenk was pregnant with her third child, she faced a series of health issues, including preeclampsia, diabetes, high blood pressure, and severe fatigue. After a complicated early delivery, both Schwenk and her newborn needed to recover quickly. This led Schwenk to discover kefir, a fermented milk drink rich in beneficial bacteria.
She credits kefir with helping her and her baby regain their health. Within 12 weeks of consuming kefir, her blood pressure and blood sugar levels returned to normal, and she felt better than she had in years. Schwenk has since become a strong advocate for fermented foods, even writing a book on the subject.
Fermented foods like kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi are gaining popularity due to their potential health benefits. These benefits include improved digestion, stronger immunity, weight control, and better overall wellbeing. Increasing research is showing that the health of our gut, which is filled with trillions of bacteria, plays a crucial role in our overall health. Good gut bacteria help with digestion and the absorption of vitamins and are linked to better mood and immune function.
However, modern lifestyles and diets can disrupt the balance of good bacteria in our guts. High sugar intake, stress, and antibiotic use can increase the proportion of bad bacteria. This imbalance can lead to various health issues like food intolerances, chronic fatigue, auto-immune diseases, and skin disorders.
Experts recommend incorporating a variety of fermented foods into your diet to support a healthy gut microbiome. Unlike commercial probiotic drinks that may contain high sugar levels and transient bacteria, fermented foods offer a diverse range of beneficial bacteria. Consuming different types of fermented foods regularly can help maintain this balance.
Some commonly recommended fermented foods include kefir, miso, sauerkraut, coconut yogurt, and kombucha tea. Each of these foods brings different types of bacteria to your gut, contributing to a healthier balance. It’s advisable to start with small amounts and gradually increase your intake to avoid any digestive discomfort.
Fermenting foods is an age-old practice seen across many cultures. Not only does fermentation preserve food, but it also enhances nutrient availability and aids digestion. Countries like Japan, where fermented foods are staple, often have higher life expectancies in part due to their diet.
If you’re new to fermented foods, start with small servings and gradually add more to your diet. Also, consider making your own fermented foods at home, which can be simple and rewarding.
Overall, adding fermented foods to your diet can offer numerous health benefits, making them well worth the hype.
