Fermentation happens when microbes like bacteria and yeast break down foods.
During this process, microbes turn sugars and other nutrients into organic acids, gases, or alcohol. This gives fermented foods their distinct and desirable taste, aroma, texture, and appearance.
The probiotics in fermented foods can travel into your gut and provide health benefits, including:
✅ Boosting the number of good bacteria in your gut
✅ Fighting off harmful gut microbes
✅ Supporting healthy digestion
The trick is to start small and enjoy them regularly.
Add just one small portion of fermented food on most days, and build things up from there.
The best part is that there are loads of different ways you can use them!
For example, you could:
✅ Add a spoonful of kefir to your yogurt breakfast bowl
✅ Add kimchi to a salad for a spicy kick
✅ Add sauerkraut to your eggs on toast
✅ Grate some aged cheddar over your soup
✅ Add some chopped tempeh to your stir fry
✅ Use miso paste in your favorite soup or stew
If you're interested in learning more about the impact of fermented foods on your health, and how to include them in your diet, you can find articles in our ZOE Health Academy below.