Fermented foods are probably not the first thing you think of when it comes to eating healthy. We're taught to constantly reach for the freshest foods. But fermented foods, which have been around for thousands of years, and the process helped our ancestors preserve food long before refrigerators and canning systems were available. When a food is put through the fermentation process, it's left to sit and steep until the sugars and carbs are digested by lactic acid producing bacteria. 

It sounds kind of scary that bacteria is left to run rampant through your food, but it’s actually a good thing — for your health and your tastebuds. Thanks to the acidic environment produced by the bacteria, no unwanted bacteria can grow, and the food itself (think yogurt, kimchi, or sauerkraut) is left to take on a delicious, tangy flavor.

These fermented foods provide a massive amount of probiotics that have some amazing benefits. Probiotics help build a protective lining in the intestines to shield the body from pathogens like salmonella and E. coli. 

Health benefits of eating more fermented foods are:

1. Boosts immune system: Fermented foods have live bacteria that increase the antibodies for fighting infectious diseases. 

2. Improve digestive function: Fermented foods create a better balance of good and bad bacteria in our gut and digestive tract. It can lead to a weak digestive system if the balance is off. Eating these foods help maintain bacteria ecosystem in our guts, ensuring bowel movements are regular. 

3. More glowing skin: Adding more of these foods can ease symptoms of eczema, acne, rashes or other skin issues. 

4. Improves current mood: When your gut health is off, it can wreak havoc on your mood and mindset.