5 Surprising Benefits of Fermented Foods and Drinks that Contain Probiotics

If you’re looking to add a healthy dose of probiotics to your diet, consider incorporating fermented foods and drinks into your meals. Fermented foods and drinks are created by a process of lacto-fermentation, in which natural bacteria feed on the sugar and starch in the food or drink, creating lactic acid. This process not only preserves the food or drink, but also provides a wealth of health benefits.

Benefit #1: Improved Digestion

Probiotics in fermented foods and drinks can help improve digestion by increasing the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These beneficial bacteria help break down food in the intestine and can also regulate bowel movements. Consuming fermented foods and drinks can also help reduce the symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

Benefit #2: Stronger Immune System

Research has shown that the gut is home to a large portion of the body’s immune system. Consuming fermented foods and drinks can help increase the amount of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which in turn strengthens the immune system. This can lead to a reduced risk of infections and illnesses.

Benefit #3: Better Absorption of Nutrients

The presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut also helps improve the absorption of nutrients from the food we eat. Fermented foods and drinks not only contain probiotics, but also enzymes that aid in digestion and help the body absorb key nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.

Benefit #4: Weight Management

Consuming fermented foods and drinks may also aid in weight management. It has been suggested that the probiotics in fermented foods and drinks help regulate appetite and reduce cravings for unhealthy foods. Additionally, some studies have shown that consuming probiotics can lead to a reduction in body weight and body fat percentage.

Benefit #5: Mental Health

Research has also linked the health of the gut to the health of the brain. Consuming fermented foods and drinks can help improve mental health by increasing the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can reduce anxiety and depression and improve overall mood and cognitive function.

Overall, incorporating fermented foods and drinks into your diet can provide a variety of health benefits, from improved digestion to better mental health. Some examples of fermented foods and drinks include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, and miso.