FEEDING YOUR MICROBIOME – PART 1…. FERMENTS
Andrea Nakayama, a Funtional Nutritionist and owner of the Funtional Nutrition
Alliance in Portland OR explains that from birth onward, the human gut microbiota
swiftly increases in diversity. It reaches an adult-like stage at about three years of age.
After this age, the composition may fluctuate in response to external factors such as the
environment, antibiotics, and the foods we consume.
Eating fermented or probiotic-rich foods is an age-old secret to protecting
health as well as preserving foods. The traditional process of fermentation
allows airborne bacteria to grow on food to prevent it from spoiling. Once
consumed, that bacteria, which is known as lactic acid bacteria, supports the
growth of the healthy population of bacteria in your intestines.
The benefits of eating fermented foods was first discovered at the turn of the
last century by Dr. Elie Metchnikoff. He received a Nobel Prize for his work
on probiotics. His research lead to the understanding that ferments can:
• prevent chronic and degenerative diseases
• improve digestion
• possess anti-cancer and immune boosting properties
• control inflammation
When it comes to feeding your microbiome with ferments, remember that
a little goes a long way. For example, think of kraut more as a condiment not a side
dish. Have one to three forkfuls with each meal to boost digestion and give
yourself a steady, daily dose of the good guys your gut needs. (Start slow and
see how you feel!)
Enjoy this simple fermented beverage recipe. It will aid digestion and help feed that precious microbiome!
Blueberry Lemon Digestive Mocktail
Ingredients:
1 (12oz.) Bottle Plain Coconut KeVita (fermented coconut water)
2 TBS Fresh Blueberries
3 Slices Cucumber
2-3 Slices lemon
Add blueberries, cucumber and lemon to the bottom of a small glass or pitcher. Crush with the bottom of a wooden spoon until the juices are released. Add ice and the full bottle of KeVita. Let stand for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to integrate. Put in a fancy glass and enjoy!
You can also add a little honey for a bit of sweetness
