Fermented food does wonders for the gut, which contains trillions of beneficial microorganisms. It can be very healthy to include them in your diet because they enhance the gut environment and help reduce problems like constipation and bloating. Scientists have even proven that fermented foods increase microbial diversity and lead to a decrease in inflammation and an improved immune system.
Fermented Foods Are Very Beneficial
According to studies, certain fermented foods can restore the microbiota of healthy adults. During one study, participants ate six servings per day, which produced significant health benefits. A way to increase the consumption of fermented foods is to add a few tablespoons to your regular meals several times a week and build things up over time. So, which are the best fermented foods?
Greek yogurt is a good starter for people new to fermented foods. It has a palatable taste and significant protein content and is produced by introducing bacteria to milk and allowing it to ferment. This results in various thickness levels depending on the type chosen. To maximize the benefits, yogurt without flavoring or added sugar is best. It ensures it contains live and active cultures.
Kefir and Saurkraut
Kefir is similar to yogurt and crafted by fermenting milk with kefir grains. It recently spiked in popularity and is available in convenient drinkable containers. Enriched with natural berries and fiber, kefir is an accessible daily gut booster.
Sauerkraut is a staple in German and Central European diets. It offers a simple and flavorful addition to meals and uses fermented shredded cabbage. Sauerkraut is tasty and rich in fiber and antioxidants that contribute to overall health.
Kombucha and Kimchi
Kombucha stands out as a fermented drink that enhances microbial diversity and is full of antioxidants. Choosing raw, unpasteurized, and unfiltered varieties is recommended. Research suggests it has positive effects on inflammation, liver detoxification, and intestinal dysbiosis.
Kimchi is a Korean delight that combines radishes, cabbage, and other vegetables in its fermentation process. Studies show it offers potential benefits for health, including reducing BMI and maintaining healthy blood pressure. It also gives relief for irritable bowel syndrome.
Miso and Tempeh
Miso is commonly used in soups. It’s made with fermented soybeans, salt, and koji mushrooms and contains a probiotic believed to lower the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. For those who don’t like soup, miso can be made into a paste or mixed into dressings.
Tempeh is a favorite fermented food among vegetarians and is rich in various nutrients. It is crafted from fermented soybeans and offers protein and vitamin B12. It also has a low glycemic load, making it an excellent choice for people aiming to manage blood sugar levels.
A Missing Woman Was Found Thanks to a Toddler Chasing Bubbles
It appears that one’s never too young to be a hero! Earlier this August in Georgia, a toddler was chasing bubbles when he saw something in the nearby woods and pointed it out to his mom. It turned out to be a woman that had been declared missing days prior. Thanks to this observant child, she was happily reunited with her concerned and loving family!
Nina Was Missing for Days
According to the news, an 82-year-old woman named Nina Lipscomb was reported missing on the 9th of August. She has early-stage Alzheimer’s’ Disease and was in town for a yearly visit with her family, as stated by her son, Thomas Lipscomb. The beloved elderly had wandered too far from her niece’s home before the family noticed she was gone. Upon not being able to see and find her in the neighborhood, the family reported Nina missing. Concerned community members along with the authorities mounted a multi-day search.
A Toddler Played a Pivotal Role in the Rescue
Nina was finally found thanks to the keen eye of a toddler named Ethan Moore. One-and-a-half-year-old Ethan and his mom Brittany Moore were in the backyard of their home on Friday, playing with bubbles. As young Ethan was chasing the bubbles, he ran toward some that drifted to the fence. Ethan’s mom told reporters that the boy noticed something in the woods near their home. The boy’s eyes were fixed on the woods as he said he saw feet.
The Family Is Grateful to the Tiny Hero
First responders were called to the scene and discovered that the person Ethan saw walking in the woods was Nina. Alive but disoriented, Nina was taken to the local hospital for evaluation, as shared by the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office. Karen Lipscomb, Nina’s daughter, explained how, even though they had gotten every needed resource into play, it was a little boy who saved the day in the end. In a social media post, Karen praised the heroic toddler, stating that angels can come in all sizes and shapes.