Fermented foods are becoming increasingly popular. But is it a passing fad or something you should pay attention to? Truthfully, fermented food is both delicious and nutritious, so adding more of them to your diet is a fantastic idea.
Here are six reasons why you should consider incorporating these microorganisms into your weekly or even daily rotation.
Improved Gut Health
Probably the most notable benefit of eating more fermented food is how great they are for your gut. We all need a more balanced microbiome for healthy digestion, and fermented foods are rich in probiotics. They help improve the diversity of your gut bacteria.
Better digestion can provide relief from bloating, constipation, and even lessen the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Better Nutrient Absorption
Fermentation not only preserves food but also enhances its nutritional value. The process breaks down compounds that can inhibit nutrient absorption, such as phytates found in grains and legumes. This means that when you consume fermented foods, your body can absorb more vitamins and minerals. So compared to a non-fermented dairy product, kefir or yogurt provide much more bioavailable nutrients for your body to enjoy!
Weight Management
Fermented foods can be a valuable addition to your diet if you want to manage your weight. Probiotics can influence appetite regulation and fat storage. There’s even been reports suggesting that people who consume more fermented foods tend to have lower levels of body fat. Granted, some of the information behind this is anecdotal, but regardless, fermented foods are generally healthier for you anyway. Adding more to your diet can increase things like your daily intake of fiber, which helps you feel fuller for longer.
Heart Health
Many fermented products, like yogurt and kefir, can help keep your blood pressure down and improve cholesterol levels. Probiotics could help reduce LDL cholesterol (that’s the bad kind). And more than that, bioactive compounds that you’d find in fermented foods can help protect your cardiovascular system. The healthier that system is, the lower your chances are of contracting heart disease. In fact, many cultures that regularly eat fermented foods, like Japan or Korea, typically report lower rates of chronic disease across the board. Eating an extra helping of kimchi could be the investment in your long-term health you need!
Sustainability
Fermenting fruits, vegetables, and even dairy products can contribute to a more sustainable food system. Most people will use extra produce to make fermented foods, so it’s a solution to food scarcity. People have used it for years to extend the shelf life of foods. And in a culture where food waste is all too common, it’s good to invest in options that are part of the solution rather than the problem.
Variety!
We can’t overlook that fermented foods are just downright delicious additions to any diet. And not just when eaten by themselves: yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi are all essential ingredients in many dishes. They’re also fantastic when served as an accompaniment to a dish.
For example, a simple fried rice dish can be taken up a notch with a small serving of kimchi on the side.
Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
Refrigeration prevents spoilage and may extend the shelf life of common foods and other perishable items. While we may innocently store some foods in the refrigerator, you may be surprised that you shouldn’t store all of them, as this may affect their nutritional value, taste, and texture.
Although refrigeration can help preserve certain foods, some items shouldn’t be refrigerated to maintain flavor and freshness. Avoiding these foods can ensure your food stays nutritious, fresh, and flavorful.
Here are 15 food items experts warn people never to refrigerate for optimal flavor and freshness.
Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
3 Foods Dogs Shouldn’t Eat
We all love our furry friends and wouldn’t mind sharing tiny bits and pieces of food when we’re eating. While this may all be innocent, and you may be giving your dog foods that are okay, certain foods can be poisonous to dogs.
Dogs may react differently to food depending on the type, ingested amount, and size.
Read on as we discuss the three common foods dogs shouldn’t eat.
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