Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir are becoming more popular, but can they really boost your health? Let’s delve into the benefits and some personal stories.
Thirteen years ago, Donna Schwenk was 41, pregnant with her third child, and suffering from severe health issues, including preeclampsia, diabetes, high blood pressure, and fatigue. Her baby, Holli, was delivered prematurely and both needed to improve their health urgently. Donna discovered kefir, a fermented milk drink rich in beneficial bacteria, in a health food store. After adding kefir to her and her baby’s diet, she saw dramatic improvements within weeks: Holli gained weight, and Donna’s blood sugar and blood pressure normalized.
Donna credits these improvements to the high bacteria content in fermented foods like kefir, which supports gut health. Emerging research suggests that fermented foods can enhance digestion, immunity, weight management, and mood. Donna participated in a PBS Special exploring the benefits of fermented foods, and even the New York Times has flagged fermented foods as a future food trend.
Nutritionist Michael Pollan and others have embraced homemade food fermentation. LA nutritionist Kimberly Snyder advises clients to eat fermented vegetables daily, claiming benefits like improved skin and energy. The gut is increasingly seen as central to overall health, and clinical nutritionist Kathie Swift stresses that gut bacteria are crucial for digestion and absorbing vitamins. Studies have shown that altering gut bacteria can change weight and mood.
There are around 100 trillion bacteria in our guts, both good and bad. Factors like age, diet, stress, and medications can disrupt the balance, leading to various health issues. Nutritional therapist Daniel O’Shaughnessy explains that restoring good bacteria through fermented foods can alleviate many symptoms.
While supermarket drinks claiming to contain good bacteria aren’t very effective, a diet rich in diverse fermented foods is. Different fermented foods contain different bacteria strains, making variety important for a healthy gut. Fermented foods have been a dietary staple in many cultures for centuries not only for preservation but also for their health benefits.
Foods like kefir, miso, sauerkraut, and kombucha are easy to add to your diet. Just be sure to start slow and choose products with live cultures. You can also make your own fermented foods using simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking to boost your gut health, improve your skin, or simply try something new, giving fermented foods a try could be worth your while.
