In recent years, there has been a lot of talk about fermented food and its multiple benefits. This is nothing new, as this type of food and drink has been consumed since ancient times due to its properties.

Consuming food that has undergone a fermentation process can be very good for your overall health, which is why at kiwilimón, we tell you about some types of fermented food and their benefits.

You can also read: What is kefir and what are its benefits?

Types of Fermented Food


Fermented foods are those dishes and drinks that are prepared through a process in which bacteria and yeasts break down sugars, as noted by Healthline. Through fermentation, it is possible to preserve food for a longer time, in addition to obtaining great health benefits.

Here are some of the most well-known types of fermented food:

Kimchi
Kimchi is one of the most traditional and famous dishes from Korea. This side dish, with a salty and spicy flavor and sweet-sour notes, is made by fermenting cabbage with chili, garlic, ginger, sugar, fish sauce, radish, and scallions.

Kefir
Kefir or bulgars is a creamy, tangy, and slightly effervescent drink made from fermented milk, which can be from cow, goat, or sheep. This drink has been consumed since ancient times and is widely known for being rich in probiotics.

Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented drink made with green or black tea, sugar, bacteria, and yeasts. Slightly effervescent and with a sweet-sour flavor, this infusion has a high content of vitamins and nutrients.

Miso
Miso is a Japanese condiment made by fermenting soybeans with salt and the kōji fungus. If prepared with rice, it is known as kome; if prepared with barley, it is known as muge; if it is only made with soybeans, it is called mame miso. This paste is used to season soups, stews, and salads.

Tempeh
Tempeh is an Indonesian dish made from fermented soybeans with Rhizopus Oligosporus, resulting in a compact block with high protein content that is often used as a meat substitute.

Natto
Natto is a traditional Japanese preparation made from fermented soybeans. With a viscous consistency and strong odor, natto is considered a superfood due to its high nutrient content and multiple health benefits.

Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a very famous preparation in Germany made from fermented cabbage with salt. This side dish, which has its origins in China, where it was fermented with rice wine, is known for being a great source of nutrients.

You can also read: How to care for milk bulgars?

What are the benefits of fermented food?
Fermented food has been eaten since ancient times, as the process by which it is prepared allows food to be preserved in good condition for a longer time. Additionally, in many cases, fermentation also increases the nutrient content in food, thus obtaining important benefits for our health.

Here are some of the benefits of fermented food:

Improves gut health. Fermented food has a high probiotic content. This type of microorganism has the ability to improve the gut microbiota, thus helping to have better intestinal function and facilitating digestion.

Helps combat obesity. By consuming fermented foods, it is possible to have a healthier gut microbiota, which can help prevent or control obesity, according to experts from Web MD.

Good for blood pressure. Due to its properties, fermented food can help reduce the risk of high blood pressure or help control it if one already suffers from it, as the bacteria and yeasts it contains block certain enzymes related to this condition. Additionally, they can help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Improves brain health. Although more studies are needed on this, it has been shown that fermented foods can promote serotonin production, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve cognitive function.

Reduces pain. Various studies have found that by improving gut health, sensitivity to pain, migraines, and chronic fatigue syndrome can be reduced.

Good for oral health. Experts indicate that the good bacteria present in fermented food can improve overall oral health by reducing the amount of plaque and tartar and preventing cavities and periodontal diseases.

Helps the immune system. Probiotics also help stimulate the immune system, improving its response and thus helping to prevent heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, according to Harvard Health Publishing.

Now that you know more about fermented food and its benefits, would you like to add it to your diet? At kiwilimón, we care about your well-being, which is why we have the best content on health and healthy eating. You can't miss it!

You can also read: 6 benefits of consuming probiotics