Advantages of Consuming Fermented Foods, as Perceived by a Pharmacist
Get the Lowdown on Fermented Foods: A Fresh Approach
Looking to boost your gut health and reap the benefits of fermentation? Then you've come to the right place! We sat down with pharmacist and fermentation expert Jean-Yves Dionne to uncover the secrets of these powerhouse foods.
Renowned as a Canadian authority on natural health products, alternative medicines, and author of numerous best-selling books, Dionne is no stranger to the world of fermented foods. So, let's dive into the juicy details!
What's So Great About Fermented Foods?
From bread to beverages, fermented foods hold a multitude of health benefits. However, each variety interacts differently within our bodies and offers unique advantages.
"Different fermentations may not all deliver the same results, but they can improve digestion and nutrient absorption," notes Dionne.
One standout example is the enzymes secreted by microorganisms during the fermentation process, which makes foods more digestible. This beneficial property applies to many traditional recipes.
Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Enzymes - Oh My!
To understand the fundamentals of fermented foods, let's quickly run through prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes:
Prebiotics
Think of prebiotics as fat-free fiber favorites that feed instead the beneficial bacteria in your gut. They are the perfect food for probiotics.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that bring health benefits to your system, often found in dairy products like yogurt and kefir.
Enzymes
During fermentation, bacteria produce enzymes that predigest foods, making them more easily digestible.
Vitamins Galore! Grab a Plate, People!
Some bacteria indeed create vitamins during fermentation, such as vitamin K2 found in natto (fermented soybeans) and various cheeses. However, the exact amounts are unclear, so it may not compensate for any deficiencies.
Carb Intake and Fermentation - What's the Story?
Through the fermentation process, carbohydrates are converted into acids, making the food less carb-heavy. For individuals who are into low-carb or ketogenic diets, fermented veggies like root vegetables could be a reasonable choice, especially after weeks of fermentation.
Sugar Content in Fermented Drinks
The sugar content in fermented beverages drops significantly thanks to fermentation. Sure, you'll get a hint of sour from vinegar and a touch of alcohol, but the final product still offers health benefits while keeping carbs in check thanks to proper sugar dosage.
The Marvelous Effect of Fermenting Milk
Fermenting dairy lowers the lactose content, making it more digestible for those with lactose intolerance. Popular cheeses like Emmental and Gruyere have minimal traces of lactose, making them great choices for those who usually avoid dairy.
Caveats to Eating Fermented Foods
"You can’t overdo it," says Dionne, adding that he is unaware of any serious contraindications to consuming fermented foods. Bloating may occur for some people with specific intolerances. As always, remember to listen to your body. If you don't feel well, it's best to cease consumption.
Watch Out For the Mold!
If anything funny smells or if there's mould growing, quick! Toss it! While some types of mold are harmless, others can be highly dangerous. So, when in doubt, throw it out!
Salt and Fermentation - A Healthy Partnership
Salt plays an integral role in successful vegetable fermentation, preserving food while also promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. While beneficial for most people, individuals with high blood pressure should be cautious about excessive salt consumption.
Fermented Foods and Medication
Dionne believes that there is no substantial interaction between lacto-fermentation and antidepressants or similar medications.
Get prepped and dive headfirst into the world of fermented foods with our handy recommendations!
Get to Fermenting!
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Get ready to unlock the power of fermented foods!
Fermented foods not only improve digestion and nutrient absorption, but they also offer unique health benefits such as enzymes that make foods more digestible. For instance, certain bacteria produce vitamin K2 during fermentation, like in natto (fermented soybeans), which is beneficial for bone health.
From prebiotics that feed beneficial bacteria in the gut, to probiotics that bring health benefits to your system, and enzymes that predigest foods, fermented foods play a significant role in maintaining overall health and wellness, including mental health through gut health, fitness and exercise, and nutrition.
