00:00Well, to understand how fermented foods will benefit you, let us understand what is fermentation.
00:06So, in simpler terms, fermentation is a process that involves the breakdown of carbohydrates
00:12by microorganisms like bacteria and yeast. This process further enhances the nutritional value
00:18of foods and produces beneficial compounds such as probiotics, which are live microorganisms that
00:25offer health benefits when consumed. Now, you might be thinking, fermented? Isn't that what
00:31happens to that forgotten carton of milk in the back of the fridge? Well, kind of. But instead
00:37of funky science experiments gone wrong, fermentation is a controlled process where
00:43good bacteria and yeast munch on the sugars and starches in food. Now, the consumption of fermented
00:50foods and their effects on gut health is vast. They help with improved digestion,
00:55balancing gut microbiota, enhancing immune function, lactose digestion, and reduced
01:01inflammation. So, if you are someone with a weak stomach or someone whose digestion is always a
01:06roller coaster, believe me here and start including any one of the following fermented foods in your
01:12diet. You will be amazed by the magic it will create for you and your stomach. But keep in
01:18mind, not all fermented food will provide the same benefits, but most of them are beneficial
01:23for our gut health. Hence, you can include any one of them as per your convenience and taste.
01:30On number 1, we have yogurt. Yogurt is made by fermenting milk with specific strains of bacteria
01:38such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These bacteria can help promote a healthy balance of
01:44gut flora, which in turn supports digestion. Indians have been using buttermilk and curds
01:51for many thousands of years. These have no sugar or salt content in them and are made from cow's
01:57milk which is fermented using homemade culture. This forms the last part of the diet because it
02:03provides an additional dose of the required good bacteria, replenishes any bacteria that might have
02:10been destroyed during the meal, and most importantly, the sour taste that soaks the
02:16gums and teeth provides a lack of environment for bacteria in the mouth to multiply.
02:22On number 2, we have kefir. Kefir is a fermented milk drink that is like yogurt
02:27but contains a broader range of beneficial bacteria and yeasts. It is known to be rich
02:32in probiotics and may have even greater potential for improving gut health.
02:37On number 3, we have sauerkraut. Sauerkraut is fermented cabbage
02:42and is a traditional food in many cultures. It is high in fiber, vitamin C, and K and
02:49contains beneficial lactic acid bacteria that support gut health.
02:54On number 4, we have Korean Darling Kimchi. Kimchi is a Korean fermented vegetable dish
03:01typically made with cabbage, radishes, and various seasonings. It is rich in vitamins,
03:07minerals, and beneficial bacteria that can contribute to a healthy gut. So, if you want
03:14that glow and leaner look, make some Korean friends they will happily gift you a container
03:19of kimchi. You can also buy them from the nearest Asian grocery store. However, store-bought kimchi
03:26pickles will not have this effect because they don't contain live cultures. The process of
03:32pasteurizing them to make them long-term shelf-stable kills the yeast and destroys the
03:38enzyme. But don't be sad if you don't get your hand on kimchi maybe buy some organic ingredients
03:44from the market and make your own kimchi pickle at home. You will have many videos on YouTube
03:50to check out. Just go with the one which is easy for you.
03:54Now, on number 5, we have kombucha. Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage made by fermenting
04:00sweetened black or green tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, SCOBY. It is a
04:07source of probiotics and may have other health benefits although more research is needed.
04:12On number 6, we have miso. Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning made by fermenting soybeans
04:20with koji, a type of fungus, salt, and sometimes grains. It is rich in probiotics and can be used
04:27in soups, dressings, and marinades. Keep in mind that if you're new to fermented foods,
04:34you might not be familiar with the taste and smell. So first make sure your body and mind
04:39register the smell and taste of it. Start with half a cup per day and build up from there,
04:45if you are trying. Pickles start incorporating one tablespoon with lunch.
04:50It's important to note that individual responses to fermented foods may vary and some people may
04:56experience digestive discomfort or intolerances. If you have specific health concerns or conditions,
05:03it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making
05:07significant changes to your diet. Until next time, take care and have some kimchi.
05:15you
Comments