The Best Fermented Food for a Healthier Diet

Every other year, a new fad food always seems to pop up promising incredible health benefits. While the science behind these superfoods is usually sound, a lot of people don't realize that eating healthy doesn't always have to be fancy or exotic. A lot of the food that we see in our daily life is actually packed with nutrients, making healthier eating as easy as opening your pantry.

We've previously written about '9 Foods That Will Help Detox Your Body'. These are foods you'll find in any home or supermarket, like lemons, ginger, and fresh fruit. Today, we're going to talk about another kind of food that's got tons of health benefits, most especially gut-friendly probiotics. That food is fermented food.

Below, we've listed out the five best fermented foods, and reasons why you should be adding them into your grocery lists and meal plans.

Yogurt

We'll start this list off with the most popular fermented food in modern society: good old yogurt. Yogurt is made from fermented milk, and is a popular food item in cultures all around the world. You're likely to find this in the dairy section of your supermarket in a variety of styles and flavors, at least a few of which will suit your taste.

Why eat yogurt? As Eat This, Not That! explains, there are a ton of benefits to yogurt. It can make you more alert, improve your digestive health, and even support your nervous system. It's also low in calories and easy to pair with most foods, making it a great addition to any diet (if you are practicing a low carb or keto diet, keep your eye's peeled for a 'sugar free option' and always remember to CHECK THE LABEL!)

Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV might not be high on the list of foods you want to add to your diet, but you might be surprised at what it can do. Not only is it a refreshing addition to your vinaigrettes, it's also an all-rounder in terms of home remedies. You can use it for treating sunburn, acne, and even as a weight loss aid.

A feature on apple cider vinegar for acid reflux by Brightcore recommends taking ACV in gummy form, as ACV gummies can provide all of the benefits of ACV without damaging your tooth enamel or esophagus in the long run. Apple cider vinegar can help lower blood sugar and provide your digestive system with a much needed probiotic boost. Plus, gummies can make for a refreshing, healthy snack on the go.

Natto

Natto might seem a little exotic if you've never tried it before, but it's a common breakfast staple in Japan and in many Asian-American households. Natto is basically made from soybeans, which are first boiled and then fermented. The fermentation process creates something called nattokinase, an enzyme that can play several important roles in your health.

RxList lists out a few of nattokinase's benefits, including its ability to soothe the symptoms of cardiovascular diseases and chronic pain. Nattokinase can only be found in natto, and is a great, natural solution for high blood pressure and other ailments. Sure, it might take some getting used to, but natto is all natural and healthy, so go ahead and add it into your cart.

Kimchi

Kimchi is another fermented food that's extremely popular in Asia, and in South Korea specifically. However, it's also gained some popularity in the West, and can now be found in nearly all Asian grocery stores and even your neighborhood supermarket.

Usually consumed as a side dish, kimchi is another miracle fermented food. Women's Health highlights kimchi's high probiotic content, and its ability to boost your antioxidant levels and reduce chronic inflammation. It can even support brain function, which is more than enough reason to sour yet spicy dish a try.