Introduction To Fermentation
Dr Hiral Bhatt explains Fermentation is the process by which yeast and bacteria break down starches into simpler substances. In fact, this process is the basis of all food preservation, making sure that foods stay fresh for longer.
Fermented foods are widely consumed in the Indian subcontinent. A variety of fermented foods are consumed daily, including buttermilk, curd and paneer. Whilst the majority of Indian food is vegetarian, fermented foods such as tofu, pickles and soured buttermilk can be used to make sour dishes for non-vegetarians or for those with dietary restrictions.
Qualities Of Fermented Food
Some of the well-known qualities of fermented foods are
- Fermented foods act as a probiotic while also giving out rich taste.
- They contain good healthy bacteria that provide the same health benefits as our own gut flora.
- A number of studies have shown that fermented foods are beneficial to our health in a number of ways, including increasing the absorption of nutrients.
Besides the commonly known qualities of fermented foods, there are some more qualities that, which you may not be aware of.
As Ayurveda says Fermented Foods are agni vardhak i.e. digestives. A food that helps to Kindle the digestive fire by enhancing secretions from glands of the GIT is called an Agnivartak. This can include any type of food, particularly those like fermented foods which contain a significant amount of heat. They are more likely to improve digestion but might also have some effect to imbalance heat. They may also have congestive effects leading to blockages and related diseases on some body types and in some seasons.eg a Kaf body type person in spring season.
For Whom Is Fermented Foods Suitable
When it comes to health, fermented food is all the rage. Fermented food can help to gain weight and improve overall health. This is because fermented foods made with urad daal which is high in protein and the fermentation process makes it easier to assimilate. So it helps those wishing to gain some muscle mass. Pickled foods help the body to absorb all essential nutrients and minerals. So they are an excellent dietary supplement for people with weak digestion, or even a little bit of pickle in a meal will help your body absorb the nutrients from the food better and efficiently.
Fermented food can be highly beneficial for health in some conditions. For people having a heat imbalance in their bodies, fermented foods are not recommended. For example, those with skin conditions, ulcers or high blood pressure should completely avoid consumption. People with certain diseases should also avoid consumption of it because it may worsen the condition. However, Dr Hiral Bhatt suggests that during hot climates, the consumption of fermented foods should be kept to a minimum or completely avoided, otherwise we may experience adverse effects on our health.
Conclusion
As per Ayurveda Doctor in Navi Mumbai effects of all things that we come across in our life are determined by our present state of mind, diet and activity. Fermented foods are never a bad thing to eat but when you want to consume ferments it must be at the right time and in the right place. So, one has to be careful about the state of mind or lifestyle, climate, body type and age of the person who wishes to consume the food that is being fermented. We don’t consume fermented food just because it is good for our health or it is a healthy food. It is advisable to weigh the pros and cons before making it a regular part of diet.
