Did you know that the digestive system plays a huge role in how well our overall immunity functions? It turns out that about 70% of our immune system is integrated with the digestive system, so there’s no surprise that having a healthy gut can play a big role in how well our immune systems function. When it comes to kids with allergies, working on the digestive system can actually play a big role in calming down reactions and even fighting inflammation. One of the best ways to heal the gut and keep it flourishing with good bacteria and healthy function is to enjoy fermented foods.
Fermented foods are any whole foods that have been processed naturally by bacteria. Foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, vegetables, kombucha, kefir, and kim chi are all popular examples of fermented foods – and they’re on the list of foods that many parents turn to when they want to do amazing things for the digestive and immune health of their families.
When we eat fermented foods, we supply nutrients and nourishment to the whole body, but especially to the digestive tract. We also provide sustenance to the ‘good’ bacteria in our guts that help us digest foods, extract nutrients, and process waste efficiently. Fermented foods are nutrient powerhouses for us and supportive sources of nourishment for the bacteria that help us get the most from the good foods we eat.
Since fermented foods help us get more from the foods we eat, we end up more nourished and less likely to fall into deficiency in essential vitamins. Their help with eliminating toxins means that kids get rid of what their bodies don’t need so that they are less likely to deal with toxicity.
With these great benefits, choosing fermented foods could be an amazing addition to your family’s healthy diet!
Here are some great fermented foods to try – many of them are dairy-free!
- Kefir
- Yogurt
- Fermented Vegetables
- Raw Kim Chi
- Kombucha
- Raw Sauerkraut
- Chutney
- Kvass
- and many more!
Does your family have a favorite fermented food?
Share it with us in the comments below!