Advantages of Consuming Fermented Foods, as Suggested by a Pharmacist
Heck Yeah, Let's Dive Into the Health Perks of Fermented Foods!
Wanna know what's hot in the health world? Fermented foods! So we sat down with fermentation expert, Jean-Yves Dionne, aka the fermentation maestro, to get the lowdown on why these bad boys are worth adding to your diet.
Our man Jean-Yves is a pharmacist who's authored books, graced the airwaves as a broadcaster, and is a pro when it comes to natural health products and alternative medicines. This dude is the real deal!
Curious about the health benefits of fermentation? Read on to find out what Jean-Yves had to say!
What's the Big Deal About Fermentation?
First things first—it's important to note that every fermentation interacts differently with the human body and doesn't offer the same benefits. But science shows they can significantly boost our digestion and nutrient absorption!
For instance, the sourdough used in making sourdough bread can disarm anti-nutrients like antitrypsin, phytic acid, and oxalates. Cool, right? These microorganisms in sourdough ferment the ingredients, making for a more digestible bread than the gluten-filled yeast bread.
And this "secretion of enzymes by microorganisms" applies across the board for many traditional fermented recipes, observes Jean-Yves.
Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Enzymes—Oh My!
Let's break it down:
Prebiotics
These are soluble fibers that become your gut bacteria's favorite grub. Prebiotics are the parts of food that can be fermented and feed the good bacteria in your body.
Probiotics
Probiotics, meaning living microorganisms, provide benefits to our bodies. For example, the good bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus in fermented dairy products like yogurt and kefir offer health benefits.
Enzymes
In fermentations, bacteria produce enzymes that pre-digest food, making it more digestible.
Are Vitamins Multiplied During Fermentation?
Some bacteria indeed create vitamins, such as vitamin K2 during fermentation. While this is rad, it's hard to measure whether they produce enough to make up for deficiencies.
Are Fermented Foods High in Carbs?
During fermentation, the carbs in veggies are used for bacteria growth, but it's difficult to determine exactly how much. If you ferment your food for long enough (like weeks!), up to 30% of the carbs become acids. So people on ketogenic or low-carb diets can probably eat fermented veggies rich in carbs, like root veggies, if they're fermented for a sufficiently long time.
Is There a Lot of Sugar in Fermented Beverages?
Nah, friend! The sugar in fermented beverages like kombucha becomes virtually undetectable through fermentation. What gives it that tangy taste is acetic acid (vinegar) and a bit of alcohol. Just watch your daily carb intake according to the dosage!
Will Fermenting Milk Make It More Digestible?
Yes, indeed! Though dairy products like milk contain lactose, the amount of lactose in fermented dairy products is significantly reduced, especially in cheeses with holes like Emmental and Gruyere.
Are There Any Contraindications For Eating Fermented Foods?
Nope! While lacto-fermentations can cause bloating for people with intolerances, Jean-Yves notes that he doesn't know of any other contraindications.
Are Molds Dangerous?
Yikes! If your fermented food smells funky or has mold all over it, consider it a goner. While molds can be pretty harmful, black molds like Aspergillus niger are the worst—they generate toxic molecules. However, if you spot a tiny bit of mold in your sauerkraut, just remove it. You're golden!
Is Salt in Lacto-Fermentations Harmful to Health?
Nah! Salt is crucial for successful vegetable fermentation, as it allows for the selection of good bacteria. While it has a preserving role, it's not harmful to health, except for people with high blood pressure who may already be on medication. For everyone else, don't skimp on the salt!
Are Fermentations Compatible With Antidepressants?
So far, there's no evidence suggesting that fermentations interact with antidepressants or similar drugs.
So, What's the Verdict?
From boosting digestion to increasing nutrient absorption and offering additional health benefits, fermented foods have plenty to offer. Give 'em a try, and your gut (and taste buds) will thank you!
Want to get started with fermenting at home? Check out our article on how to make a less sweet kombucha! Cheers to better health, friends!
The science behind fermented foods extends beyond digestion, as certain fermented products such as yogurt and kefir contain probiotics that promote mental health and wellness. Furthermore, nutrient-rich foods like fermented vegetables and fermented dairy products contribute to fitness and exercise by increasing energy levels and improving overall nutrition.
