Fermented foods are good for the brain

the fermented foods They are the result of biochemical processes of microorganisms (yeasts, bacteria, molds) that colonize the food and release the energy contained in the sugars or amino acids themselves to be able to use them. The product thus obtained is richer in terms of nutrition. In particular, there is a significant increase in the intake of probiotics, for the benefit of the gut and the immune system. I am numerous Advantages For the organism:

• They prefer digestion;
• they contradict weakness;
• They fight the Irritable bowel syndrome and the Diarrhea;
• They have ‘Anti-inflammatory action;
• They facilitate slimming;
• They are improvingabsorb from Vitamin B.

What are fermented foods

We regularly consume fermented foods every day. Some have eastern origins, while others derive from northern and western European traditions. Among the most famous:

• the yogurtIt originates from a mixture of two types of bacteria, Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. A valuable source of lactic fermentation, it strengthens the immune system’s defenses and maintains a healthy digestive system;
• the kefirIt is a drink based on milk and water. It can replace cow’s milk or soybean and almond vegetable drinks at breakfast;
• the sourdough: more digestible than brewer’s yeast, it is obtained from a mixture of flour, acidified water and lactic bacteria;
• the sauerkraut: derived from fermenting cabbage.
• the kimchi: is a typical Korean dish based on fermented vegetables (radish, cabbage, cucumber, green onions) and spices (chili, garlic, ginger);
• the misoIt is a natural fermented spice. Popular in China and Japan, it is produced by combining sea salt with grains and soybeans.
• the Tempe: the result of fermentation of cooked soybeans;
• the kombuchaThis oriental tea has beneficial effects on the spleen, stomach and kidneys.

Fermented foods and the brain

Diet can have a very important impact on mental health and many studies have shown that certain foods keep the brain healthy. In particular, fermented foods are a source of tryptophan, an essential amino acid for the production of serotonin, the so-called happiness hormone. But what foods have the greatest positive effect on the brain?

Scientists from APC Microbiome University College Cork and the Agriculture and Food Development Authority of Ireland (TEAGASC) are trying to answer this question with Stady which was submitted to microbiology The annual conference of the association 2023. Lead author, Ramya Balasubramanian, and the APC team compared sequence data from more than 200 fermented foods from around the world in search of metabolites Known for its mental health benefits.

Results

While the study is still in its early stages, the results were surprising. In fact, the researchers came to the conclusion that of the 200 fermented foods analyzed, almost all of them proved to be potential allies for gut and brain health. Fermented sugar, which takes a raw sugar substrate, turns it into a large number of metabolites Which can have a beneficial effect on the consumer.

The investigation must now deepen. Ramia and her colleagues’ next step will be to subdue highly fermented foods Exam rigorously using an artificial colon and different animal models. However, scientists advise people to eat yogurt, kefir and similar foods. Be careful, however, not to exceed the unpleasant effects of laxatives.