Naturally fermented foods have been a part of civilization since the beginning of time. Ancient cultures did not have the modern ways of food preparation and storage that we have in today’s modern society. Now, we live in a world that is obsessed over concern about bacteria in food. While in many cases this can be a good thing, it also takes away from the health benefits that are available from eating fermented foods. A fermented food is one in which the carbohydrates and sugars it contains have been turned into beneficial acids or alcohol. This can also include such foods that contain “living” enzymes, such as cheeses or yogurts.
Some Reasons You Should Consider Eating Fermented Foods
Modern processes used to ensure food safety such as pasteurizing, also kills the good bacteria beneficial to our digestive systems. Fermentation helps our bodies digest food more easily and also assists in the restoration of the balance of beneficial bacteria in the stomach. Today, many people suffer from common conditions such as yeast infections, allergies, irritable bowel syndrome, gluten intolerance, and lactose intolerance. These ailments can many times be caused or aggravated because the digestive system lacks enough “good bacteria”. These conditions are more prevalent today as opposed to centuries ago, due to current methods used to inhibit bacterial growth in the food supply.
Other benefits of fermented foods include the fact they are rich in enzymes that aid the body’s ability to digest foods properly, as well as increasing the ability to absorb the nutrients and vitamins from the food we eat.
I realize one is non-fat and the other is lowfat, but the difference is quite stark. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The fermentation process actually allows foods to be preserved for longer periods of time and can be an inexpensive solution to making the most out of a summer garden surplus. The organisms in fermentation produce acetic acid, lactic acid, or alcohol. These are all bio-preservatives that retard spoilage and preserve nutrients.
If you would to incorporate more fermented foods into your diet, consider adding these items from the fermented foods list. Consider drinking Kefir, which is a fermented milk product that basically tastes like drinkable yogurt. Sourdough bread is also made from fermented “starters”, and also happens to be a delicious alternative over commercial yeast containing breads. Recipes can be found online for making your own sourdough starter so you can make and bake this bread at home.
Watch This To Learn How To Make Your Own Fermented Foods
Several condiments also make the fermented foods list. These include: sauerkraut, pickles, mayonnaise, salsa, sour cream, ketchup, soy sauce, and kim chi.If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also find recipes to make homemade versions of these condiments. Several vegetables can also be fermented and offer a tasty alternative over other preparation methods.
The benefits of fermented foods have been recognized for centuries. As our bodies begin to age, our enzyme levels begin to deplete, making the enzymes found in fermented foods even more important for our health as we get older. The microscopic bacteria and fungi produced during the fermentation process give foods distinct flavors and are packed with nutritional benefits. The human gut contains countless bacteria of both good and bad varieties. By eating fermented foods, you can help restore the balance of the flora of the gut, which can in turn help alleviate a lot of health issues. The foods not only taste delicious , but will also improve your health. You can help nourish your body, while at the same time optimizing your health. This gives you the potential to live a longer, healthier life.
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