About Fermentation

Fermentation is a process that involves the breakdown of carbohydrates by bacteria and yeast.  Fermentation is a natural process through which microorganisms like yeast and bacteria convert carbohydrates — such as starch and sugar – into the natural preservatives that give fermented foods a distinct zest and tartness.

Fermented foods are more nutritious than their unfermented form because they  promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria known as probiotics.  Probiotics improve digestive health and support immune function.   The probiotics produced during fermentation can help restore the balance of friendly bacteria in your gut and alleviate some digestive problems. Probiotics can reduce uncomfortable symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome a common digestive disorder.

Boosts Your Immune System

The bacteria that live in your gut have a significant impact on your immune system.  Due to their high probiotic content, fermented foods can give your immune system a boost and reduce your risk of infections like the common cold.  Additionally, many fermented foods are rich in vitamin C, iron, and zinc — all of which contribute to a stronger immune system 

Fermentation helps break down nutrients in food, making them easier to digest than their unfermented counterparts.  For example, lactose — the natural sugar in milk — is broken down during fermentation into simpler sugars.   As a result, those with lactose intolerance are generally fine eating fermented dairy, like kefir and yogurt.

Fermentation helps break down and destroy anti-nutrients which are compounds found in seeds, nuts, grains, and legumes that interfere with the nutrient absorption.  The reason that we soak beans overnight before cooking them is to reduce the anti-nutrients found in the skin of the beans.  Soaking gets rid of these enzymes  that keep us from digesting the beneficial nutrients in the legumes.  Fermentation makes food easier to digest, reducing bloat and gas and strengthening the immune system.

Happy Homesteading,

T.