Lactofermented Foods: The Ultimate Digestive Nourishment

Our digestive tract is very important for both breaking down and assimilating the foods that we eat.  It has been termed the "second brain" in our body as it secretes large amounts of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is a major player in mood regulation.  However, when our digestive tract is not working properly, many disease processes can manifest, including Crone's disease, ulcerative colitis, heartburn and food allergies. 

In order to work properly, our digestive tract requires two things.  First, it requires the proper nutritional building blocks, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, digestive enzymes etc.  Second, it requires a healthy gut flora, which is a layer of beneficial bacteria.  This gut flora assists in digestion of foods, boosts and stimulates the body's immune system, and protects the gut from pathogenic microorganisms.  However, due to the use of antibiotics, contraceptive pills, prescription medications and toxins in the food we eat and in our environment, our gut flora can become damaged and greatly diminished.  This is why it is important to consistently replenish these healthy bacteria into our digestive tract. 

The best source of beneficial bacteria in our diet are foods that have been lactofermented.  In these foods, the bacteria present pre-digest the carbohydrates into lactic acid, a weak acid and natural food preservative that aids in digestion.  The best sources of these lactofermented foods include dairy products and vegetables.  Common lactofermented dairy products include yoghurt and kefir.  When looking for these dairy products, look for those that do not remove the fat and do not have artificial sweeteners added.  Dairy products from pasture raised, grass fed animals will contain healthy fats and fat soluble vitamins A, D and K.  Lactofermented vegetables include sauerkrout, pickled cucumbers, kimchi, and many chutneys.  Again, look for sources that have no artificial sweeteners or additives.  In addition, drinks such as beet kvass or kombucha are not only excellent beneficial bacteria sources, but are quite flavorful and offer an great alternative to soda.