If you want to increase the number of healthy bacteria in your gut, then you can’t go wrong with fermented foods. Fermented veggies are one of the best things to incorporate into your diet, and they can even be made at home! Keep reading to discover the best fermented vegetables for gut health.
Fermented Vegetables For Gut Health
During fermentation, yeast and bacteria break down sugars. Fermentation has been used as a way to preserve food for thousands of years, and it also has some amazing health benefits. Fermented foods have a high number of probiotics, which can greatly improve gut health. Here are some fermented vegetables to try if you want to start increasing the number of friendly bacteria in your digestive system, according to the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School:
Kimchi
A popular side dish in Korea, kimchi is one of the most potent and beneficial fermented vegetables you can eat. And thankfully, it’s now widely available in almost any health food store. Made from fermented cabbage, it often comes in a variety of flavors and can be very spicy, so eat with caution!
Sauerkraut
Another type of fermented cabbage, sauerkraut has a vinegary taste that can take some getting used to. It’s a popular condiment on things like hot dogs, sandwiches, and soups. It has an impressive amount of antioxidants and is also high in fiber.
Pickles
Fermented pickles are a great way to get your regular dose of probiotics. Pickles are made by fermenting cucumbers in a brine liquid that contains water mixed with either salt or vinegar. The result is a probiotic-rich fermented food that can help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. It’s important to be aware that many store bought pickles contain high amounts of sodium, so read the label and make sure they have been fermented.
Ginger
Ginger already contains a variety of health benefits, and once it’s fermented, it takes things to a whole new level. Compared to regular ginger, fermented ginger is more bioavailable, meaning it’s more easily absorbed by the body. And like other fermented foods, it’s also rich in probiotics. Ginger has been used to ease digestive issues for hundreds of years, so it should be a staple in your pantry.