If you were in our Wednesday morning #dropinsession you’ll know why fermented foods deserve a place in your fridge.
People have been fermenting food for thousands of years to preserve it. What they didn’t know then is that fermentation also creates beneficial bacteria that help keep us healthy.
Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that influence digestion, immunity, energy, mood and even brain function. When that balance is disrupted, you may notice bloating, sluggish digestion, frequent illness or low energy.
Fermented foods help replenish those beneficial bacteria naturally. They’re not a miracle cure, but they’re one of the simplest ways to support a healthy gut.
Where to start (shopping list below 😉)
- Natural yoghurt — Choose plain, full-fat yoghurt with live cultures. La Petite France yoghurt.
- Kefir — A fermented milk drink with an even greater variety of beneficial bacteria. Particularly helpful after antibiotics.
- Sauerkraut — Fermented cabbage that’s rich in fibre and vitamin C. Just one tablespoon with a meal is enough. Buy it from the refrigerated section.
- Kimchi — Fermented vegetables with garlic and chilli. Great for both gut and immune health.
- Kombucha — A fermented tea. Choose low-sugar varieties.
Raw apple cider vinegar (with “the mother”) isn’t a probiotic, but it can support healthy digestion and bile flow.
Shopping tips
Look for products that are:
- La Petite France yoghurt — grass-fed happy cows and yoghurt cultures only!
- Made with live cultures — Shiloh Farms curry kraut; Avalon Herbals — choose from 10 different ferments!
- Low in added sugar — Koastal kombucha.
- Water kefir — a milder ferment (for beginners).
If it’s been pasteurised after fermentation, the beneficial bacteria have been destroyed.
Not sure where to start? Pop into The Good Health Shop. We’ll help you choose the fermented foods that best suit your digestion, your lifestyle and your health goals — without the confusion.