Gut health is the most important factor in achieving a balanced and healthy body, and prevention of diseases. The most effective way to give your gut goodness, is by eating foods packed with probiotics. These are good bacteria, that can be easily found in fermented foods.These types of foods are incredible at helping to improve digestion, and enabling the body to properly absorb nutrients.
Did you know that fermentation actually makes foods more nutritious? Studies have shown that traditionally fermented dairy products actually provide more vitamins than conventional or even raw milk. Vegetables, fruits, beans and grains actually become more nutritious after they ferment and helps to eliminate toxic acids. Fermentation helps to give our guts a break, making it easier to absorb the minerals better.
Since 80 percent of your immune system is located in your gut, and the digestive system is the second largest part of your neurological system, the gut is actually considered the “second brain.”
Try these top fermented foods for a happy gut.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is cut up fermented cabbage, loaded with vitamins C, B and K. It also contains a whole host of beneficial probiotics, including lactobacillus. If you’re buying sauerkraut, make sure to choose unpasteurized brands, as pasteurization kills all the helpful bacteria. Sauerkraut goes great in salads, or as a coleslaw.
Kefir
Ever heard of kefir before? Well this a magic potion you need to know about. It is a unique cultured dairy product, similar to yogurt, and is one of the most probiotic-rich foods. The benefits of kefir are astounding for healing gut issues. It is loaded with valuable vitamins and minerals and contains easily digestible complete proteins. Kefir also contains beneficial yeast and bacteria that provide lactase, an enzyme which consumes most of the lactose left after the culturing process. Therefore it is ideal for the lactose intolerant. A bowl of kefir with fruit and nuts makes the perfectly loaded balanced breakfast for your gut.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented fizzy tea that contains an abundance of good bacteria, B vitamins, enzymes and probiotics. These bacteria line your digestive tract and aid your immune system, as they absorb nutrients and help to fight infection and illness. Drinking kombucha every day can help you to maintain good gut health. All the rage these days, many brands offer this fun fizzy drink in an assortment of flavors.
