As someone who struggled with gut issues for a number of years, incorporating fermented foods has been a game changer. Swapping out regular bread for local sourdough and adding kimchi to dishes as well as having kefir with fruit for breakfast and drinking Kombucha has definitely made a difference to my overall gut health. I believe the fermented nature of the foods does help, but buying the best quality versions of those products without additives or sweeteners is equally important for our overall health.
My digestion and gut health took a turn for the better when I added things like sourdough and kefir to my diet. Sourdough is more agreeable to my stomach than regular bread. The process of fermentation helps break down some of the gluten and phytic acid, therefore making it easier on digestion and less likely to bloat. I feel more energetic after meals now that I consume sourdough, and my digestive problems have also reduced. Kefir is another favorite drink of mine, especially for gut restoration. It is a probiotic powerhouse, and taking a small glass in the morning or in some smoothies keeps my digestion in check and helps with mild bloating. The tip that I picked up was to always start small and increase because the body may take time to adjust to fermented foods. The combination of the two has made my digestion more predictable and comfortable.