Probiotic Powerhouse: Top 12 Fermented Vegetables And Their Benefits For Gut Health!!
Health
Published on: 11-Apr-2024
10 min read
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Anushka Tripathi
Probiotic Powerhouse: Top 12 Fermented Vegetables And Their Benefits For Gut Health!!
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Fermentation is an age-old preservation technique and a wonderful way to add variety to your meals. What’s more, fermented foods are packed with ‘good’ bacteria that can help boost your gut health and improve digestion.
Lacto-fermentation is one of the oldest and most common fermentation methods used by many cultures worldwide. Lacto-fermented foods, ranging from healthy yoghurts to tangy kimchi, have become a common companion among many cuisines.
While the thought of ‘eating bacteria’ can create pictures of diseases, many strains of good bacteria have a symbiotic relationship with our body and can help maintain gut health. This includes lactobacillus. During lacto-fermentation, lactobacillus breaks down sugar into lactic acid. This then acts as a natural preservative and gives your vegetables that tangy, fermented flavour. Lactic acid also helps food retain its natural flavours and beneficial nutrients.
In this blog, we will explore this probiotic powerhouse, aka some of the best fermented vegetables that can boost your gut health. Plus, we will explore the array of benefits they bring! Let’s get into the topic!
Table Of Contents
1. What Are Fermented Vegetables?
2. What Are The Top 5 Fermented Foods?
3. What Foods Can I Ferment At Home?
4. Are Fermented Vegetables Good For You?
5. The Final Say
6. FAQs
7. References
What Are Fermented Vegetables?
Anaerobic fermentation is the process by which bacteria and yeast convert food ingredients, such as glucose, into other substances, like organic acids, gases, or alcohol. This is responsible for the distinct and appetising flavour, aroma, texture, and appearance of fermented foods.
Fermented vegetables undergo a lacto-fermentation process, which extends their shelf life and can help to reduce food waste. Korean kimchi and sauerkraut are two examples of popular side dishes or condiments featuring fermented vegetables. Other fermented foods include probiotic-rich kombucha, kefir, and sourdough.
Consuming fermented vegetables and other fermented foods has some health benefits. The method of food preservation promotes the formation of probiotics, or good bacteria while suppressing the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Fermentation also increases or, at the very least, preserves the nutrients and enzymes in the vegetables. This increases the digestibility of many vegetables, which promotes good gut health.
What Are The Top 5 Fermented Foods?
After knowing about the fermentation process, let’s have a look at some of the best-fermented vegetables and dishes including them so that you can include them in your diet:
1. Kimchi
Kimchi is a fermented vegetable mixture of spices and vegetables, including cabbage, radishes, leeks, cucumbers, and sweet potatoes. This fermented food originated in Korea almost 1,000 years ago, and it is a traditional Korean food popular across East Asia and the world.
Kimchi is a salty and sour mixture that can take on a variety of flavours depending on the spices, seasonings, and vegetables used in its preparation. Kimchi is often a side dish, but you can mix it into other dishes, such as dumplings, stew, or rice.
Research suggests that eating kimchi helps in lowering cholesterol and improves blood sugar levels. The probiotics in kimchi help improve your gut health and relieve certain digestive issues, like abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. The vegetables commonly used in kimchi are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fibre, and other beneficial nutrients.
2. Tempeh
Tempeh is prepared by fermenting soybeans that are pressed into a compact cake.
This fermented food is an excellent source of protein. It is firm but chewy and can be eaten baked, steamed, or sauteed before being added to dishes. Along with its impressive probiotic content, tempeh contains many nutrients that may improve your health.
Soy protein helps in reducing certain risk factors for heart disease. According to a review of over 40 studies, consuming approximately 25 grams (0.88 oz) of soy protein every day for six weeks can lead to a 3.2% reduction in LDL (bad) cholesterol and a 2.8% reduction in total cholesterol. Tempeh is an excellent fermented food option for both vegetarians and omnivores. It is particularly well-suited for dishes like sandwiches and stir-fries.
3. Pickels
Pickles, particularly those fermented through natural processes having cucumbers, radish, lemon, jackfruits, etc, offer various health benefits. They are rich in probiotics, which promote gut health and aid digestion. They are low in calories and fat but high in fibre, making them a satisfying snack that can help with weight management. The fermentation process also enhances the bioavailability of nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, in the vegetables used to make pickles, further boosting their nutritional value.
Also Read: Top 8 Ways To Improve Nutritional Value Of Indian Foods
4. Fermented Radish
Fermented radish offers a plethora of health benefits due to its probiotic nature. Consuming fermented radish can promote gut health by replenishing beneficial gut bacteria, aiding digestion, and enhancing nutrient absorption. Fermented radish is rich in antioxidants and may support immune function, reduce inflammation, and contribute to overall well-being.
5. Sauerkraut
Lactic acid bacteria ferments shredded cabbage to create the delicious relish known as sauerkraut. Although it is low in calories, it is high in fibre and vitamins C and K.
It has significant levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that can support eye health and lower your risk of eye illness, just like other foods prepared with leafy green vegetables.
In a Norwegian study, thirty-four individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) participated, and the symptoms of IBS significantly improved for those who consumed sauerkraut. Sauerkraut is a versatile ingredient that works well in soups, casseroles, and sandwiches.
What Foods Can I Ferment At Home?
Here are some additional fermented vegetables to add to your list that are easy to ferment at home:
Carrots | Fermented carrots are packed with probiotics that support gut health by balancing intestinal flora and improving digestion. They also contain antioxidants like beta-carotene, which may help reduce inflammation and promote overall well-being. |
Cucumbers | Fermented cucumbers are rich in probiotics, which boost digestive health and support immune function. They are also low in calories and water content, making them a hydrating and refreshing snack option. Fermentation enhances their nutrient profile, making them nutritious to your diet. |
Garlic | Garlic is a wonder food—a superfood that can enhance and strengthen your immune system. This simple pickled, fermented garlic recipe allows you to ferment garlic or add it to your recipes. |
Lemons | This lemon reduction sauce is a great way to employ preserved lemons, which are flavourful and simple to prepare. |
Green Beans | Fermented green beans are rich in probiotics, which can support digestive health by improving gut flora balance. They contain beneficial enzymes that aid in nutrient absorption and may help alleviate digestive issues like bloating and gas. |
Turnips | Fermented turnip offers a myriad of health benefits, including improved digestion and enhanced immune function. Its probiotic content supports gut health, whereas its antioxidants aid in lowering inflammation and offering protection against long-term illnesses. |
Peppers | Fermented peppers boast high levels of beneficial bacteria, which can promote gut health and support a strong immune system. They contain capsaicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and vitamins that contribute to overall well-being. |
Also Read: Foods Rich In Vitamin B12
Are Fermented Vegetables Good For You?
Here are the reasons or benefits of eating fermented vegetables or foods:
1. Digesting Fermented Vegetables Is Easier
Lacto-fermentation is our digestive system's ally. During fermentation, lactic acid bacteria "predigest" food for humans.
They produce enzymes and degrade some of the big compounds our digestive systems have difficulty processing.
Among other aspects, fermentation lowers the amount of carbohydrates and certain substances (oligosaccharides) that lead to upset stomachs and flatulence.
2. Fermented Foods Have Greater Nutrient Content
In addition to neutralising several harmful compounds, fermentation raises food's nutritional content, improves enzyme concentration, and increases nutrient bioavailability.
Unlike canned veggies, veggies that have undergone fermentation retain all their vitamins and nutrients. Their nutritive worth may even rise!
During fermentation, bacteria produce several nutrients, including vitamins C and K and members of the B group of vitamins, including the well-known B12.
3. Fermentation Is A Safe Way To Preserve Food
One of the main advantages of lacto-fermentation is that it is a safe method of food preservation. It is theoretically safer to eat fermented food than raw food.
In fact, the bacteria that cause lacto-fermentation create lactic acid as a defence against outside invaders.
This makes the environment (like your sauerkraut) completely uninhabitable for unwanted microbes like salmonella, botulism, E. Coli, and so on.
And what was the outcome? Food will be preserved for years since it will be teeming with beneficial microorganisms! Thus, a properly prepared lacto-fermentation is risk-free and innocuous.
4. New Flavors Are Produced By Fermentation
Lacto-fermentations have a sour, nuanced, and, quite frankly, fantastic flavour. Umami is the sixth delicious and addicting flavour that is produced by various lacto-fermentations.
In fact, fermentation produces a myriad of novel flavouring elements. For instance, anise or citrus fruit notes might be detected in simple fermented celery!
Thus, fermented foods are employed to intensify flavour. A little pickle, kimchi, or sauerkraut can make any bland dish shine!
The Final Say
In conclusion, fermented vegetables hold significant cultural and social importance across diverse communities and stand as a cornerstone of global dietary habits, comprising a substantial portion of daily consumption. The research underscores their potential as probiotic carriers, with studies indicating their role in fostering the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Moreover, the rich prebiotic compounds found in fermented fruits and vegetables further enhance their nutritional value. As we look ahead, leveraging the symbiotic relationship between fermented foods and human health, particularly through plant fermentations, emerges as a promising avenue for advancing wellness and nutrition in the future.
FAQs
1. What are some well-known Indian fermented vegetables?
Here is the fermented vegetables list:
Cabbage
Carrots
Beets
Tomatoes
Cauliflower
Green Beans
2. What are the benefits of fermented vegetables?
Here are the major health benefits of fermented vegetables:
Improves digestion
Lowers your risk for certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease
Promotes a healthier and more diverse gut microbiome
3. Which are the best-fermented vegetables for gut health?
Some of the best fermented vegetables for gut health include kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles, and fermented carrots. These probiotic-rich foods help promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria, supporting digestion.
4. How long do homemade fermented vegetables last?
Homemade fermented veggies can last for 4-18 months if they are appropriately prepared and stored in a cool, dark place such as a refrigerator. However, inspecting them for any signs of mould growth, ensuring a consistent colour throughout, and verifying if they still look edible is crucial. You can use your sense of smell to determine if they still emit their characteristic aroma and don't have a foul odour.
5. Is it okay for me to eat probiotic vegetables if I have IBS?
Yes, you can eat probiotic vegetables if you have IBS, but it's important to monitor your tolerance to them as some individuals may experience worsening symptoms.
6. Can I eat fermented foods every day?
There are no official guidelines on how often one should consume fermented foods. However, it is advisable to incorporate a few servings of them into your daily diet for potential benefits. For optimal results, begin by consuming one or two servings per day and gradually increase the intake over time.
References
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