What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Fermented Foods.

Fermented foods are foods that have been through a process of lacto-fermentation in which natural bacteria feed on the sugar and starch in the food creating lactic acid. Fermented foods are filled with probiotics, a healthy bacteria that facilitate smooth digestion in the gut. Many studies have shown the link between probiotic rich foods and overall health. Fermented foods such as buttermilk, kefir (fermented milk), tempeh (fermented soybean), idli (fermented rice), yogurt, pickled vegetables are good source of such probiotics. Below are 7 health benefits of eating fermented foods:

We all know fresh vegetables are a great source vitamins and minerals necessary for our health. However, in the fermentation process, the beneficial bacteria create enzymes and additional vitamins, which makes them even healthier than they were in their raw state.

Fermented foods are beneficial for people with diabetes. Fermenting converts sugars – glucose, fructose and sucrose – into cellular energy and a metabolic byproduct (lactic acid), which in turn produces fantastic digestive enzymes and healthy gut flora and cuts the sugar content of a food.

Numerous studies have shown the effects that healthy bacteria can have on weight loss. Fermented foods help to restore the correct balance of healthy bacteria in the gut. Restoring the gut to a healthy state aids in maintaining a healthy weight, as gut microbes influence the body’s insulin resistance and deposition of excess calories in fat stores.

Cavities, gingivitis, periodontitis, and halitosis (bad breath) are all caused by the proliferation of harmful bacteria in our mouths. By eating fermented foods rich in lactic acid bacteria and other beneficial bacterias, we keep these in check and provide a healthy and balanced oral environment.

Fermented foods balance the ratio of good and bad bacteria in the gut, which can lead to a strong digestive system. Fermented foods also produce the digestive enzymes which ensure you get the most nutrients out of all foods you ingest.

Fermented foods contain lots of healthy bacteria, also known as probiotics, which maintain the proper balance of bacteria in the gut. Studies indicate that preserving a healthy gut can lower the risk for colon cancer. Fermented foods are also rich in Vitamin K2 and studies have shown that increased intake of Vitamin K2 can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Health promoting probiotics in fermented foods strengthens the immune system by upping the amount of antibodies fighting infectious disease in body. Tempeh, a popular vegetarian protein source made from fermented soybeans, is a great source of such probiotics.