Natural strategies to maintain intestinal health
Everything feels better when your gut is content, let’s face it. Your stomach is where everything begins, including digestion, mood, and immunity. Fermented drinks and one of the most straightforward (and delicious!) methods to take care of your gut? beverages that have undergone fermentation. These are natural sources of probiotics, enzymes, and healthy acids that help balance your gut microbiome and address long-term problems including inflammation, bloating, constipation, acidity, and even skin and anxiety problems. One sip at a time, these ten delectable fermented drinks can change your gut game.
Buttermilk or chaas
This inexpensive Indian mainstay is a belly savior as well as a refreshing summertime meal. Yogurt, water, and spices like ginger or cumin are churned to create buttermilk or chaas. Lactic acid bacteria, which it has in abundance, aid in the restoration of gut flora. It facilitates digestion, calms the stomach lining, and aids in toxin removal. Perfect for a big thali or after a spicy lunch! It’s also excellent for anyone with persistent acidity or gastrointestinal issues. It is a straightforward yet effective beverage for everyday gut care because of the additional spices, which strengthen its anti-inflammatory qualities.
Kanji
Black carrots (or beets), mustard seeds, and water are combined to make this traditional North Indian fermented beverage, which is then let to ripen in the sun. Kanji has a lot of probiotics and is hot and sour. It improves appetite, eases constipation, and aids with digestion. Black carrots have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to their anthocyanins, which aid in the treatment of long-term conditions like diabetes, skin conditions, and arthritis. Additionally, kanji facilitates regular bowel movements and colon cleansing. During the winter or other seasonal changes, taking a few drinks daily can help to regulate your gut and strengthen your immune system.
Fermented rice water (Pakhala)
Fermented rice water, such as Odia pakhala or Maharashtrian pej, is a popular beverage in many Indian homes. To make it, cooked rice is soaked in water for the whole night. By morning, it’s a refreshing beverage that’s high in probiotics. It hydrates the body, calms the stomach, and promotes the development of good bacteria. It works particularly well in the heat or during diarrheal outbreaks. Rice is excellent for reducing weariness, hunger, and the healing process after illness since it releases minerals and B vitamins during fermentation. It’s also very inexpensive and simple to make!
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple juice is fermented with bacteria and yeast to generate ACV. ACV may help regulate stomach acid, enhance insulin sensitivity, and facilitate digestion when taken diluted in water (ideally on an empty stomach). It has been linked to weight control, less bloating, and better skin. Its acetic acid aids in food digestion and eliminates dangerous intestinal bacteria. Its prebiotic (pectin) component promotes healthy gut flora, even if it isn’t strictly a probiotic. Just keep in mind to dilute it often to safeguard your stomach and teeth!
Lassi (salted or sweet)
Another yogurt-based beverage that’s more than simply a delicious cooler is Lassi. The probiotics in lassi aid in preserving a balanced gut flora, enhancing digestion, and lessening bloating and IBS symptoms. The salted variety, which contains mint or cumin, is particularly effective for lowering inflammation and cooling the stomach. Even while sweet lassi has more sugar, it might still be a decent choice if it is made with natural sweeteners. Frequent lassi drinking can improve nutrient absorption, lower acidity, and boost immunity—all of which are important for treating skin disorders like acne and eczema as well as chronic fatigue.
Nutritional benefits of fermented drinks
Fermented drinks are nutrient-dense powerhouses that promote gut health in particular. They are high in probiotics, which support gut microbial balance, which is essential for immunity, digestion, and even mood control. Additionally, these beverages include organic acids, B vitamins, and enzymes that enhance nutritional absorption and support detoxification. Antioxidants, which prevent cellular damage and inflammation, are also abundant in many drinks. Frequent use can promote improved skin and mental clarity, reduce bloating, and speed up metabolism. Additionally, they frequently include prebiotics, which nourish beneficial gut flora and gradually build a stronger immune system and a better microbiome.
Also Read: 5 fermented drinks that will give strength to your health
