The Benefits and Side-Effects of Fermented Vegetables



Fermentation is a food preservation technique which has been around for centuries. Before the invention of refrigerators and high-tech food processing, our ancestors relied on fermentation for the preservation of food. Fermented foods are said to be better for digestion and stronger immunity due to its richness in beneficial probiotics. It is a natural process through which micro-organisms like bacteria converts carbohydrates into alcohols and acids. The two being a natural preservative, preserves the food from degradation. This also gives the food a distinct zest.

The benefits of fermenting vegetables include:
        Improves digestion
Fermentation of vegetables which are consumed can help restore the bacteria in the gut and alleviates digestive problems because of the balance in acidity. The probiotics reduce irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – which is a widespread digestive disease. Fermented vegetable consumptions also reduce diseases like diarrhoea, gas and constipation.

        Boosts immunity
The bacteria in the gut has a crucial impact on the all-round immunity of the person. The high content in probiotics in the vegetables boosts in the immune system and can help reduce the chances of catching infections.

        Mental Health
Studies have shown that some of the probiotic strains in fermented foods help in the reduction of symptoms like anxiety and depression. These probiotic strains are the Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum.

        Weight Loss
Research has shown that probiotic strains such as the Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus gasseri help in reducing belly fat and causes weight loss.

        Heart health
Probiotics help in reducing blood pressure and also help in the reduction of cholesterol. Hence, they reduce the chances of getting heart-related diseases.

The side effects if fermented vegetables are
        Gas
This is caused when too many probiotics kill the essential bacteria in the gut and cause the release of excess gas.

        Headaches
The probiotics in fermented vegetables contain certain biogenic amines. Those sensitive to histamine and various other amines might get headaches and migraines after eating fermented vegetables.

        Diarrhoea
Sometimes food poisoning causing bacteria survive on fermented vegetables that could secrete toxins that could cause diseases like diarrhoea.

Even though fermented vegetables have their health benefits, it must be noted that it is not for everyone. While most people are okay with consuming fermented vegetables, it could potentially cause severe health problems for some. Such people must enquire regarding food intolerance diet in Mumbai. Fermented vegetables are also said to improve skin glow, so getting in touch with skin glow diet in Mumbai would be a good idea. 

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