It is a well known fact that probiotics play a crucial role in the development and operation of the mucosal immune system in your digestive tract, and aid in the production of antibodies to pathogens. This makes a healthy gut a major factor in maintaining optimal health, as a robust immune system is your top defense system against all disease, as previously mentioned. Here Evangelyn Rodriguez, Food.news, reflects on health benefits of pickles, a fermented food and the growth of good gut bacteria:

“The ancient practice of pickling to preserve food is considered a culinary art. Different cultures have their own versions of pickled foods, which are either preserved in a strong acid like vinegar or a salt brine that encourages fermentation. Foods preserved using the latter technique are not only safe from bad bacteria that cause food spoilage, they also offer plenty of health benefits due to their abundance in beneficial bacteria. Here are some excellent reasons to add fermented pickles to your diet.

Fast facts: Fermented pickles

People often associate the word pickles with cucumbers, which are often soaked in a vinegar solution. However, there are many types of pickled foods, especially fermented pickles. Most fermented foods count as fermented pickles because they undergo the same process of preservation in brine. Common examples of fermented pickles include sauerkraut, traditional dill pickles, and kimchi. (Related: Make your own fermented probiotic dense foods.)

Fermented pickles are made by first curing foods — usually vegetables or fruits — in salt and water that promote the growth of fermentative bacteria. Brine not only ensures that lactic acid bacteria thrives, it also prevents the growth of food-spoiling bacteria and kills disease-causing ones. Fermentative bacteria, on the other hand, serve another purpose: They generate flavor compounds that give fermented pickles their signature taste.

Pickles don’t contain fat and are low in calories. Fermented pickles, in particular, have the added benefit of acting like prebiotics, which support the growth of good gut bacteria. A healthy composition of gut microbes is needed for proper digestion and optimal nutrient absorption from food. It also boosts immune function and helps prevent yeast infections and other stomach issues. According to studies, the state of a person’s gut microbiota also influences his mental health.

The 4 health benefits of eating fermented pickles

Like ordinary pickles (unfermented), fermented pickles are rich in vitamins like vitamin K and vitamin A. While vitamin K is important for blood clotting, vitamin A is needed to maintain healthy immune system, vision, and cell growth. Fermented pickles also contain plenty of B vitamins that support healthy cellular function and dietary fiber that improves digestion.”

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