Is Fermentation Just a Buzzword?
Seems like everyone is talking about increasing fermented foods in their diet these days, and for good reason! Fermentation is a process which helps pre-digest foods in the gut and results in beneficial bacteria. Fermentation usually requires water, vinegar, a bacterial culture starter (often dairy-derived), salt, sugar...and lots of time!
So is fermentation just a fad? Absolutely not! Fermentation has been an integral part of humanity, long before science could prove all of the amazing benefits. Proof of fermented foods dates back to 10,000 BCE when dairy was fermented to create yoghurt.
How will fermented foods help with my indigestion?
- they increase the beneficial bacteria, vitamins and enzymes present in foods and makes the nutrients they contain more bioavailable.
- they provide a larger variety and diversity of strains of gut-friendly microorganisms to help improve your gut flora over time.
- Indigestion can happen when our stomach acid levels are low. Fermented foods help restore the gut lining and naturally promotes an increase of stomach acid.
- At the same time, certain fermented foods help reduce symptoms of acid reflux and can neutralize stomach acid! Lacto-fermented foods naturally neutralize stomach acid, preventing it from coming back up the esophagus.
Who should avoid fermented foods?
Fermented foods are tolerated by most, but people who struggle with histamine intolerance/year-round allergies should not consume them due to the histamines created during fermentation.
If you have a yeast or candida overgrowth, avoid fermented foods and probiotics that contain yeast. Stick to probiotics that just contain bacteria to help correct the gut.
Pro Tip: If you are new to fermented foods/probiotics, introduce them gradually. Start with just ¼ to ½ tbsp. on the first day and build up the dose little by little every few days or every week.
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