Fermentation, a timeless tradition, isn’t just about preserving food and enhancing flavours—it’s a key source for probiotics, the friendly bacteria that keep our gut in check.

Our gut homes over 100 trillion bacteria and microorganisms and plays a pivotal role in our overall health, supporting immunity, mental well-being, skin health and more—See earlier post for details! 

Introducing probiotic foods early on in childhood sets the stage for a resilient gut later in adulthood. And let’s not forget, fermented foods are packed with nutrients too!

Prebiotic vs Probiotic? Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria for our gut, while the prebiotics are fibres that fuel those good bacteria.

Diversifying your diet keeps your gut microbiome happy and thriving.

Here are some popular fermented foods you can find at your grocery stores:

• Kefir & Yogurt: Rich in probiotics, vitamin B12, protein, and calcium.
  • Tip: Try coconut or plant-based kefir for a dairy-free option.
    
• Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage with dual-action prebiotic and probiotic for your gut flora.
• Miso & Natto: Japanese staples, fermented soybeans packed with protein, fibre, and micronutrients.
• Kimchi: Traditional Korean fermented cabbage loaded with both fibres and probiotics.
• Tempeh: Indonesian fermented soybeans, a great plant-based protein source with probiotics and prebiotics; a source of plant-based complete protein.

Quick Reminders:

• Not all fermented foods are probiotics, some are heated post fermentation like cheese and vinegar.
• Check labels for terms like “naturally fermented” or “live culture” to ensure you’re getting the good stuff.
• Moderation is key — introducing too much or too quickly can cause digestive issues like discomfort, gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
• If fermenting at home, prioritize proper cleanliness and procedure; food safety is key!

Want to learn more about gut health and fermented foods? 🌱 

Feel free to reach out! ✨ https://linktr.ee/dr.sheenawu.nd 

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