What You Should Know About Fermented Supplements

Fermented foods are all the rage these days, from kombucha to kefir to kimchi. Not only do these foods have a unique mouthfeel, they can provide probiotics that keep your digestive system, and even your entire immune system, in balance. But if you don't have a taste for fermented food, don't have the time to make your own, or want to expand your fermented diet, fermented enzyme supplements may be the answer. Read on to learn more about these supplements and some of the benefits they can provide. 

What are fermented enzyme supplements?

Fermented enzyme supplements are vitamins and minerals that are fermented and then dried and/or encapsulated. This process can provide a number of benefits, the least of which is allowing you to reap the gains of fermented food without having to do your own fermentation or deal with a potentially sour or tangy taste. 

Fermented supplements can be taken on their own or combined with a diet heavy in fermented foods to provide you with even more probiotics and "good" bacteria.

How can these supplements benefit your health?

Fermentation generates living organisms like yeast and bacteria. While you may spend much of your time fighting against bacteria, especially in the winter, fermenting creates beneficial bacteria that can help bring your gut and immune system back into balance. Many common conditions like excess gas, constipation, upset stomach, migraine, and other issues can be reduced or even resolved by going on a probiotic-heavy diet.

Fermenting supplements can increase their antioxidant content, anti-inflammatory abilities, and their "bioavailability," or the availability of vitamins and nutrients. One problem with many over-the-counter vitamins and supplements is that they're hard for the body to digest and absorb. Consuming many times the daily dose of Vitamin D or calcium won't do much if these supplements are just passing through your digestive tract unabsorbed; instead, you're just purchasing expensive urine. By consuming fermented supplements, you'll be far better able to absorb their good ingredients, helping you get your money's worth.

Fermented enzyme supplements also tend to stay fresh and safe much longer than non-fermented supplements. Fermentation acts as a sort of natural preservative and can ensure your supplements don't expire or go bad before you've had an opportunity to consume them. Even if you're reluctant to begin a fermented supplement regimen or aren't sure it will benefit you, trying a few days of these supplements may provide enough of a change in your energy levels, mood, and digestive health to get you hooked.

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