Why Fermented Foods Are So Healthy

The health benefits of fermented foods are still being researched. But we know that they provide important probiotics and other nutrients and, among other things, strengthen the immune system. 

Fermented foods are back in vogue right now, but the truth is, they ‘re  a very healthy classic. Typically, they make up between 5 and 40 percent of the human diet.

In many regions there are typical fermented foods such as yogurt, cheese, crème fraîche or soy sauce. There are also beverages such as kefir (fermented milk), kombucha (fermented tea), beer or wine. Other examples are: Japanese miso (fermented soy seeds), kimchi from South Korea (hot, fermented cabbage) or typical German sauerkraut. But there are also numerous other fermented foods.

Fermented food has been consumed around the world for centuries. However, it has become very popular again in recent years because of its numerous health-promoting properties. Find out more about it today.

Fermented Foods: Health Benefits

Potential Health Benefits of Various Fermented Foods:

• They improve digestion and the absorption of nutrients:  The healthy intestinal bacteria play an important role in the digestion of the food consumed.
• The fermentation process produces important vitamins, such as vitamin K, which is only found in a few non-fermented foods. This vitamin is essential for bone and heart health. It also plays an important role in preventing certain types of cancer.
• They strengthen the immune system. Don’t forget that 70 percent of the body’s defenses are in the gut. When the microbiota is weak, the risk of various diseases increases.

• Different fermented foods provide different bacteria and  improve bacterial diversity in the gut. The greater the diversity, the lower the likelihood of falling ill.

What are the health benefits of fermented foods?

Fermented foods have numerous health benefits that go well beyond basic nutritional issues. Scientists are in the process of researching the precise effects of these foods on the body. But we already know various beneficial properties of these foods.

Fermented dairy products could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The consumption of yogurt is also associated with a healthy body weight and is also said to protect against type 2 diabetes. 

Fermentation can improve the quality and digestion of proteins. It also increases the level of vitamin B and vitamin C. It also improves the absorption of minerals such as iron and zinc.

For some people, fermented foods are also easier to digest. This is the case, for example, in patients with irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance. The bacterial cultures used to make yogurt make lactose easier to digest.

Some fermented foods contain  living organisms that belong to the probiotic family that are beneficial for intestinal health. The amount of microorganisms in the intestine increases with it, which is most likely very beneficial.

Should we consume fermented foods for health reasons?

Fermented foods have been part of the human diet for centuries  and have a very positive effect on health. Therefore, most dietary recommendations incorporate fermented foods, which should be incorporated into the nutrition plan on a regular basis.

You can use yogurt in a wide variety of recipes, for example in mixed drinks. Miso tastes great in soups and sauerkraut can be prepared in different ways as a side dish or salad. Cheese is also very versatile. For example, water kefir or kombucha provide refreshment. 

Fermented foods can be very beneficial to health, but there is still a lot of research to be done in this area. Try to eat a healthy and balanced diet and include fermented foods in your diet.