Why Fermented Foods Can Improve Your Diet (& 4 Delicious Options)

In fact, countless scientific research points to the fact that the consumption of fermented foods positively impacts everything from your immune system and digestive health to overall mental and physical health.

With so many proven health benefits associated with fermented foods, you may be wondering how to adapt your diet. Well, another great thing about fermented foods is the fact that they can be seamlessly included in your current diet in delicious, no-fuss ways.

What exactly are fermented foods?

Fermentation is actually quite an ancient technique, originally used to increase the longevity of food. This technique is a natural process that enhances the taste of the food while giving it an added nutritional complexity.

During the fermentation process, microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria work to convert carbs like starch and sugar into alcohol or acids. The alcohol or acid then acts as a natural preservative, giving fermented foods a distinct zest and sour tartness.

Most importantly, fermentation also promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria known as probiotics. Gut bacteria are essential as they help with everything from digestion and absorption to the assimilation of nutrients.

The benefits of consuming fermented foods

Consuming fermented foods and drinks like yoghurt, sauerkraut and kombucha offers a range of health benefits. Nutritious and delicious, fermented foods can make a big difference to your overall health.

Improves digestive health

Achieving the proper balance of both good and bad gut bacteria is essential and this is where the fermentation process really shines. This is due to the fact that the probiotics produced during fermentation can help restore the balance of friendly bacteria residing within the gut.

Boosts the immune system

Many people don’t know that the bacteria that lives in your gut actually have a significant impact on the immune system. Due to their high probiotic content, fermented foods can give your immune system a boost.

This boost to the immune system reduces the risk of infections such as the common cold. Fermented foods may also help you recover faster seeing as they are rich in Vitamin C, iron and zinc.

Makes food easier to digest

One of the great things about the fermentation process is the fact that it helps break down nutrients in foods, making them easier to digest than unfermented foods. During fermentation, lactose is also broken down into simpler sugars.

The fermentation process also helps break down and destroy antinutrients like phytates and lectins, which are compounds found in seeds, nuts, grains and legumes, which interfere with a person’s ability to absorb nutrients.

4 delicious ways to incorporate fermented foods into your diet

Oftentimes, incorporating healthy new things into your existing diet can feel like hard work. However, getting to experience the benefits of fermented foods is easier than you think. This is because fermented products can be used as snacks, side dishes, garnishes and even drinks!

1. Quorn

All Quorn products are made from Quorn's mycoprotein. Taking natural and nutritious fungus known as Fusarium venenatum, we use the process of fermentation to grow Quorn's mycoprotein. Which, when finished, infuses all of our products with a nutritious source of protein.

2. Miso

Miso is a traditional Japanese paste that is made from fermented soybeans and grains that are comprised of millions of beneficial bacteria. Rich in essential minerals and vitamins, miso adds depth to dishes like marinades, rices and soups. You can buy miso in stores or make it at home.

3. Kimchi

Spicier than sauerkraut, kimchi is a form of fermented cabbage mixed with other vegetables. Containing vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, as well as other select minerals, kimchi can be eaten as a side dish or as a condiment added to soups and hotpots. Kimchi can be homemade or purchased in stores. Vegetarians should look for kimchi which does not contain fish sauce.

4. Kombucha

Kombucha is essentially a fermented and fizzy black tea. Yeast turns sugar into alcohol and carbon dioxide in the fermentation process. Allowing bacteria called acetobacter to convert the alcohol into acetic acid, giving it a sour taste. You can brew your own batch of kombucha at home. Watch out for the store bought kind as it can feature a lot of processed sugar.

Be your best self with Quorn

Whilst we may know all of the options available to us on our quest for better health, some may feel too hard to implement. However, enjoying the benefits of fermented foods and drinks is as simple as swapping a cup of tea for a glass of kombucha, or placing a miso based sauce over your dinner.

At Quorn, we’re not just about healthy plates, but a healthy planet too. So, when you enjoy Quorn mince, you’re getting all of the benefits of fermented foods, while also enjoying a delicious meal that is kind to nature. Make the change your body and environment is calling for today and browse the our product range.