Fermented foods are gaining popularity, but do foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir really benefit your health? 13 years ago, Donna Schwenk faced severe health issues while pregnant with her third child. Her baby, Holli, was born prematurely due to Schwenk’s preeclampsia, and Schwenk developed diabetes, high blood pressure, and extreme fatigue.
Desperate for a solution, Schwenk discovered kefir, a fermented milk drink rich in beneficial bacteria, in a health food store. After adding it to Holli’s bottles, her baby gained weight, and within weeks, Schwenk’s own health improved dramatically. She later wrote a book about the benefits of fermented foods and their impact on gut health, which research shows can affect digestion, immunity, weight, and mood.
Fermented foods are becoming a significant trend, with many experts recommending their daily consumption. Clinical nutritionist Kathie Swift emphasizes the importance of gut health, explaining that imbalances in gut bacteria can affect the whole body, from immunity to mood. Researchers have found that improving gut bacteria can alleviate various health issues, suggesting a significant link between gut health and overall wellness.
There are 100 trillion bacteria in your gut, both good and bad. As we age, the balance often shifts toward more harmful bacteria due to factors like diet, stress, and medications. Daniel O’Shaughnessy, a nutritional therapist, explains that this imbalance can lead to various health problems. Consuming a variety of fermented foods can help restore this balance, but it’s essential to start slowly to avoid digestive upset.
Popular fermented foods include kefir, miso, sauerkraut, coconut yogurt, and kombucha tea. Each has different strains of bacteria, contributing uniquely to gut health. For example, kefir is a fermented milk drink that can be made at home, while miso is a versatile soybean paste. Sauerkraut can be homemade or store-bought, and coconut yogurt offers a dairy-free option. Kombucha tea, though an acquired taste, is another beneficial fermented drink.
Including a mix of these foods in your diet can ensure a wide variety of good bacteria, vital for a healthy gut. Start with small amounts and gradually increase your intake to avoid any initial discomfort. By diversifying the types of fermented foods you consume, you can support better digestion, immunity, and overall well-being.
Remember, while incorporating fermented foods into your diet, it’s also important to consume prebiotic foods like onions, garlic, artichokes, oats, barley, chickpeas, lentils, and bananas to support the growth of good bacteria in your gut.
