get cultured

Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and kombucha have a plethora of health-promoting bacteria.  These friendly bacteria, also known as probiotics, help populate and rebalance your gut flora and can restore your health.

Almost 80 percent of your immune system exists in your gut, which contains about 100 trillion bacteria. Here’s some perspective – you have 10 times more gut bacteria than the number of cells in your whole body!

Studies show that probiotics positively impact everything from seasonal allergies to irritable bowel disease, to oral health and even weight loss.

Intestinal flora impacts more than your gut and immune system – it also affects your brain. The gut also houses your body’s second nervous system- you have the same amount of neurotransmitters in your gut as your brain.

For optimal immune and nervous system function, you need adequate friendly microflora populating your gut.   The Standard American Diet, antibiotics, stress, food sensitivities, toxic exposures, and numerous other factors can create an imbalance of detrimental bacteria in your gut, creating bloating, fatigue, diarrhea, inflammation, headaches, and even for food cravings.

Consuming fermented food on a regular basis can help rebalance and repopulate health-promoting bacteria in your gut and redirect your body towards good health.  Initially start with small quantities, as some people may experience bloating when introducing these gems.

Look for fermented foods that have not been irradiated and have live cultures- these are normally in the refrigerated section at your local health food store.  And if you feel adventurous, try your hand at fermenting foods at home!