The gut, also called the gastrointestinal tract is the stomach and the intestines. They are the crucial parts of our digestive systems. The Gut flora is a complex ecological system formed by indigenous prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbial cells in the digestive tracts. They are our 24/7 fighting Soldiers for optimum health! We rely on our gut flora to resist pathogens and “educate” our immune system.
80 percent of our immune system is located in your digestive system. A healthy gut and gut flora is key if you want to remain healthy. A strong immune system is your number one defense system against all viruses, infections and diseases.
It is important to keep our gut healthy and efficient by eating the right foods. Fermented foods are some of the best for overall digestive tract health.
Let’s take a look at the top 5 fermented foods for gut health.
1. Kefir:
It is a fermented milk drink, which tastes like a yogurt drink. Kefir is packed with probiotics. Studies have shown that kefir may reduce irritation in the intestines. Make sure that the kefir you drink is organic, or better yet homemade.
2. Kimchi:
Kimchi is a spicy, fermented cabbage dish from Korea. Research from the Journal of Medicinal Food shows that it contributes to colon health, lower cholesterol and a healthier, stronger immune system.
3. Kombucha:
Thousands of years ago, the ancient Chinese discovered Kombucha, which they named “immortal health elixir” for its many health benefits. Kombucha is a mix of bacteria and yeast. It is great for the gut and is even shown to help here gastric ulcers in a 2010 study.
4. Sauerkraut:
Sauerkraut is made using water, salt and cabbage. Very little heat is used to prepare the cabbage in order to keep beneficial bacteria in tract. The sour taste comes from the break down of lactose by the probiotics in cabbage. Because of its high levels of probiotics, it is great for gut health. Make sure to purchase raw sauerkraut.
5. Tempeh:
Tempeh is made from soybeans that are fermented with yeast. It has a light, nutty flavor and is packed with probiotics for gut health. Make sure to look for organic tempeh, as a large percentage of soybeans are genetically modified.
Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
Gut smoothie.
Mango banana gut health smoothie.
REFERENCES:
1. “7 Must-Eat Fermented Foods for a Healthy Gut.” Eating Well. Eating Well, n.d. Web. 27 July 2015.
2. “Health Benefits of Kimchi (Korean Fermented Vegetables) as a Probiotic Food.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 27 July 2015.
3. “Impact of Kefir Derived Lactobacillus Kefiri on the Mucosal Immune Response and Gut Microbiota.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 27 July 2015.
4. “Comparative Healing Property of Kombucha Tea and Black Tea against Indomethacin-induced Gastric Ulceration in Mice: Possible Mechanism of Action.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 27 July 2015.
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