Benefits of Fermented Foods and Drinks

When you think of fermented foods, it may not bring forth pleasant thoughts — in fact, you may have just had a flashback to being a kid and having to finish a heaping serving of sauerkraut before you could leave the dinner table.

However, your parents may have been onto something. The benefits of fermented foods may just be worth the sour taste. Luckily, if you’re not a sauerkraut fan, there are many different foods, drinks, and supplements you can try.

Are Fermented Foods Good for You?

Fermented foods are a good source of probiotics, which have been attributed to improving your gut health. When the live bacteria in your belly are balanced and working together, it may help to:

Boost your immune system
Help with inflammation
Improve your overall health and well-being

Adding a list of fermented foods to your next grocery haul may be a good first step towards a healthier gut. There are several food and drink options that are teeming with fermented goodness, feeding your microbiome the probiotics it needs to be happy and balanced. You can even make your own fermented foods at home!

Popular Fermented Foods

Kombucha

This fizzy drink with a kick comes in a variety of flavors. The fermenting process to make kombucha produces lots of probiotics and antioxidants, making this drink both delicious and nutritious.

Like many fermented foods and beverages, kombucha can be an acquired taste at first, but it’s quite popular and is now even being used as an alternative to wine and cocktails. Interested in giving this fermented drink a try? Check out where to find kombucha in San Diego.

Kimchi

Kimchi is a popular Korean dish made of fermented veggies and spices. This adds nutritional value and also helps extend shelf life.

Kimchi may sound like a plant-based food, but vegetarians and vegans beware — traditional kimchi recipes often use products like fish sauce and other seafood ingredients, so always read the label before enjoying.

Kefir

Kefir is in the yogurt family, and like yogurt, is a fermented product that hosts a variety of probiotics. If you enjoy the tang of yogurt, kefir may be for you. It can be very tart, even if there’s fruit and additional sweeteners added in. If you love everything sour, kefir may be right up your alley.

Tofu

Made from fermented soybeans, this spongy food soaks up the flavor of your favorite marinades. Use in stir-frys, on sandwiches, or in tacos in place of meat.

Sauerkraut

Fermented cabbage makes an excellent topping for sausages or on sandwiches. It’s also tasty on its own as a side dish.

Side Effects of Fermented Foods

If you are new to eating fermented foods, they may upset your stomach until your body gets used to them. While they have many benefits, you cold experience side effects such as: