Your intestines are home to trillions of germs, so don't be alarmed! Numerous of them are "good" microorganisms that support our continued wellness. Imagine it as if you had pets living inside of you. You also need to feed them, just as with any other pet. A modern Western diet high in processed foods, according to Gail Cresci, PhD, RD, who studies gut bacteria, can disturb the balance of your gut microbiota and cause unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms. Fermented foods can be useful. We have outlined a few reasons why reintroducing traditional fermented foods, such as fermented pickles or sauerkraut, to your diet is beneficial for your health.
You can't digest food alone
Your body's healthy microorganisms aid in the breakdown of complex carbs. Other compounds produced by this fermentation and metabolising process are also healthy for your body. You need a lot of soluble fibre from foods like beans, oats, and oranges to have diverse gut bacteria. Although insoluble fibre, which is present in many whole grains, is healthy for you, the diversity of your gut flora is not much increased by it since it is difficult to ferment.
Good bacteria fight the bad
You ingest harmful (disease-causing) microorganisms every day. However, because it is taken care of by your little, microscopic assistants, you don't always become sick from it. The pH of your colon is lowered by the acidic fermentation byproducts produced by good bacteria, which makes it harder for harmful bacteria to survive. Additionally, they fight each other for access to your intestinal lining and food supplies. Additionally, they release antimicrobial proteins that eliminate harmful microorganisms.
The body needs help making vitamins
Many of the vitamins your body needs are synthesised, or produced, by good microorganisms. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, and K are on that list.
A healthy body needs balance
Your intestines' tiny germs have an impact on your entire body. Less diversified gut microbiota has been linked to numerous chronic diseases, including obesity, asthma, and chronic inflammatory diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, according to research. The reason behind this is currently a subject of investigation.
Helps restore gut health after taking anti-biotics
Ever experienced diarrhoea or other stomach issues following antibiotic use? That is because they eliminate both beneficial and harmful microorganisms. Consuming fermented foods may assist in reestablishing healthy gut flora. Eat a diet rich in fibre and plant-based foods, as these are what your gut microorganisms need to thrive.