Are fermented foods beneficial for immunity?

Fermented foods amplify your immune system. The probiotics in these foods enhance the gut-immune signaling. Fermented foods make way for beneficial bacteria that help train your immune cells and keep your gut barrier functioning. Daily consumption helps regulate inflammatory responses throughout the body.

How the "live cultures" in fermented choices teach your immune cells to tell the difference between bad news and good news lies primarily in your gut! Approximately 70% of immune cells reside within this area. Probiotics support gut barriers, preventing nasty pathogens from entering your bloodstream and causing havoc, while encouraging the production of inflammation-fighting compounds.

Different "fermented foods" have their own strains that confer different immune benefits on the human body. For example, yogurt and kefir protect against upper respiratory infections due to the presence of the strain Lactobacillus. Leuconostoc is a probiotic bacterium contained in kimchi and sauerkraut that improves the body's resistance to pathogens. Kombucha Imparts strain benefits to your body's detoxification pathways derived from yeast.

3. Add fermented foods - Start small, gradually increasing your servings. Yogurt in the morning, or mix kefir into your smoothies. Eat kimchi as a side dish to most meals. Select products that state 'live cultures' and are located in the refrigerator section. Avoid heated products, as they can kill healthy bacteria within.

As with any food, those with a histamine intolerance should introduce fermented foods cautiously. Some people experience issues with products cultivated using histamine-producing strains, so it's best to start with a small amount and see how you respond. Where possible, rotate various fermented products to encourage microbial variety and allow the immune system the benefits of exposure to a wide range of species.

Read the full article: 10 Immune Boosting Foods to Know