Humans have been eating fermented foods since ancient times. However, today it is rare to incorporate a fermented food in your diet. Fermented foods are full of good bacteria and can support a healthy gut and immune system. Here are 5 reasons why to eat the stuff-

1. Restoration of normal flora= happy gut and strong immune system.
Have you or your child taken antibiotics recently? If so, your good bugs have been wiped out along with the bad ones. Normal flora (good bugs) are essential for warding off diseases and promoting optimum health. Allergies, food intolerances, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and skin conditions are all inked to a lack of good normal flora.

2. Enzymes!
Enzymes are essential for breaking down your food and properly absorbing the nutrients. Aging and a poor diet decrease your gut’s enzymes. But eating fermented foods can replace some of them.

3. Rich in essential nutrients.
Fermented foods are a great source of B vitamins, such as folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, and biotin

4. Taste
Fermented foods are delicious! They have a unique, rich flavor!

5. Preservation
Fermentation is a natural preservation process that retains nutrients and prevents spoilage.

Here are some of my favorite fermented foods:

Kombucha (a fermented tea drink available at any health food store)
Sauerkraut (fermented cabbage)
Tempeh (fermented soy- see below for my favorite recipe).
Kefir (fermented milk drink)

Try to eat one fermented food per day.

Recipe:
Mock Tuna Salad

Ingredients:
-1 package of tempeh
-1/4 cup total of mayo and mustard mixed together
-2 stalks of celery, chopped
-1 tbsp dill
-garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste
-1-2 tbsps Braags liquid Aminos (or soy sauce)

1. Place the block of tempeh in a pot of water. Boil for 5-10 minutes (until soft).
2. Drain the water. Crumble the tempeh with a fork and put into a bowl.
3. Combine remaining ingredients.

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.