Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir are gaining popularity, but do they actually improve your health? Here’s a look at the potential benefits and some real-life experiences.
Thirteen years ago, Donna Schwenk went through a series of health challenges. At 41, during her third pregnancy, she faced preeclampsia, resulting in her baby being delivered seven and a half weeks early. Schwenk herself dealt with diabetes, high blood pressure, and extreme fatigue. In search of solutions, she stumbled upon kefir, a fermented milk drink, in a book at a health food store.
Desperate for improvement, she started adding kefir to her life. Within a month, her baby gained four pounds, and within 12 weeks, Schwenk’s blood sugar and blood pressure normalized, making her feel rejuvenated. This experience inspired her to write a book advocating for the health benefits of fermented foods.
Schwenk isn’t alone in promoting these foods. A PBS Special, “Health Breakthroughs,” explores how fermented foods like kefir, yogurt, and vegetables such as sauerkraut can enhance health in various ways, including digestion, immunity, weight management, and even mood.
Fermented foods are now recognized as a major trend, with experts like Michael Pollan embracing homemade fermentation. They help balance the gut’s bacteria, which plays a crucial role in overall health. Negative changes in gut bacteria might stem from high-sugar diets, stress, and antibiotics, leading to various health issues. Restoring good bacteria can alleviate symptoms like food intolerances, fatigue, auto-immune diseases, and skin disorders.
Some may wonder why they shouldn’t just consume commercially available probiotic drinks. However, experts suggest that a diverse range of fermented foods provide a multitude of beneficial bacteria strains, which are more effective than those in sugary drinks.
Fermented foods are not new. They have been part of traditional diets worldwide, and their renewed popularity is partly due to the recognition that they make nutrients more accessible to the body. They also played a role in food preservation before refrigeration.
Different cultures have their own fermented delicacies, like Korea’s kimchi and Japan’s miso soup, each offering unique health benefits. However, moderation is key, and introducing them gradually can help avoid digestive issues as the body adjusts.
When buying fermented foods, look for labels that indicate raw, live cultures. DIY fermentation at home is also an option, with simple methods to create your own healthy treats.
In summary, fermented foods offer various health benefits by supporting gut health, which in turn affects digestion, immunity, and mood. Engaging with these foods thoughtfully can help improve overall well-being.