“Fermentation consists of transformation of simple raw materials into a range of value-added products by utilizing the phenomenon of growth of microorganisms and/or their activities on various substrates.” “The History of Fermented Foods”
This is the process in which raw cabbage is turned into sauerkraut or raw milk is turned into kefir. From kimchi in Korea to sauerkraut in Germany, fermented foods are extremely prevalent all across the world as people are gradually becoming aware of their health benefits.
Although it takes a while to make fermented snacks and it requires a little patience, it is definitely worth it. Lacto-fermentation is a process which preserves foods while creating beneficial enzymes, probiotics, and B vitamins.
Ginger
Due to its positive properties, ginger is very popular in fermented foods. Long-hailed for its health benefits, from lowering inflammation to combating cancer, ginger works as great addition to almost anything. Gingerol, the key bioactive compound in ginger, is responsible for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, ginger is effective in treating nausea, fighting hypertension, lowering the risk of heart disease, and lowering bad cholesterol levels.
Ginger Bug
Ingredients:
- a quart or ½ gallon-size jar (or other)
- ½ cup filtered water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp ginger root, grated
Instructions:
It is recommended to use room temperature water in order to allow the sugar to dissolve faster. Mix all the ingredients, cover with a paper towel, and secure with a rubber band. Add all the ingredients above every 24 hours, without removing anything but continuing to add. By the end of the day, you are supposed to have a ginger bug which can be used to soothe your stomach by being added to a glass of water.
Fermented ginger
Ingredients:
- Ginger root, peeled and sliced
- Lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Sea salt
- 1 tbsp Turmeric
Instructions:
Peel the ginger root first, preferably by soaking it in cold water for about fifteen minutes and then scraping the peel off with a spoon. Squeeze a few lemons to cover the ginger and mix the lemon juice with the salt and turmeric in a bowl until it is fully dissolved. Then, pour the mixture over the ginger and close the jar. Let it ferment at room temperature for 14 days.
Fermented foods and your stomach
Given that fermented foods are an excellent source of probiotics, consuming them helps bring beneficial bacteria in your digestive system and thus balance bowel health. By balancing bacteria balance, probiotics help the digestive enzymes to work better when it comes to absorbing the food. These probiotics also affect immunity, which in turn protects against illness and disease.
source: http://besthealthyguide.com
