Fermentation is a natural process where microorganisms like yeast and bacteria convert carbs, like starch and sugar into alcohol or acids. This acts as a natural preservative and gives fermented foods a distinct flavour. Fermentation also promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut, also known as probiotics. Probiotics have shown to improve immune function as well as digestive and cardiovascular health, so they’re a great addition to any diet!
ALSO SEE: What Is Foraging and Why You Should Know About It
Easily digestible
Fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut are easily digestible because the bacteria does most of the digesting for you. If you struggle to digest raw foods, perhaps fermenting your own is not a bad option. See these 10 useful tips to help get you started:
Healthy gut
Probiotics found in fermented foods form a protective lining of gut bacteria in your stomach, that, above promoting your overall health, will help shield you from diseases like E. Coli and salmonella.
Weight loss
They’re packed full with dietary fibers which suppress your appetite and leave you feeling full for hours. They also don’t contain any sugars or cholesterol – so you don’t have to be too strict on yourself when it comes to portion control!
ALSO SEE: How To Lose Weight: 13 Daily Habits To Try
A healthy dose of energy
Fermented drinks like kombucha are great boosters as they’re chock-full of vitamin B, which will help combat your depleting energy levels and the factors that contribute to it. Find kombucha online at Faithful to Nature, and in retail stores like Food Lovers or Jackson’s Real Food Market. Keen to rather make it yourself? See this short tutorial:
ALSO SEE: Easy Fixes For All-Day Energy
Strengthens bones
Fermented foods like kefir and probiotic yogurt are rich with calcium that can increase bone density and help shield you from diseases like osteoporosis.
ALSO SEE: 5 Workshops To Get Back Into Nature
Compiled by Features Writer Savanna Douglas
