Benefits Of Fermented Beverages And Tips For Their Preparation

Fermented probiotic drinks are gaining in popularity. There are different types, and people are looking for more information about these products because of their benefits to the body. And there is a reason ... The results of consuming them are: improving digestion, helping to fight bacterial infections and overall strengthening of immunity. Such drinks are kambucha, kefir, various types of yeast.

• Dairy probiotic drinks, such as kefir. It differs from milk because it is made from kefir grains, which contain different strains of bacteria. Many studies have found that the product has antimicrobial properties, stimulates immunity and improves digestion of lactose.
• Kombucha - made from tea, fruit and yeast. This drink contains useful probiotics and is the ideal choice for people who have an intolerance to dairy products.
• Fermented cereal juice - yeast - is a traditional Slavic and Baltic drink, resembling beer. It has a slightly sour taste and is usually made from fermented rye bread.
• Fermented vegetable juices (yeast) - similar are known from the preparation of sauerkraut.
• Cultivated coconut drinks - coconut kefir, which is made with kefir beans and coconut water.
• Water kefir - is obtained when kefir grains are added to sugar sweetened with sugar. This mixture is allowed to ferment for between 24 and 48 hours. This helps the drink to be saturated with useful probiotics. Water kefir is milk-free, lighter than traditional and is often flavored with fruits, spices and herbs.

Each type of drink has different probiotic strains. Lactic acid bacteria called lactobacillus are specific (you know the name, this is the type of bacteria in Bulgarian yogurt). In addition to beverages, probiotics are found in a number of fermented foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, miso, kimchi, pickles and others.

1. Improves intestinal health and aids digestion

Probiotics improve bowel function. They have been proven to help the health of the intestinal tract and make nutrients easier to digest.

The reason fermented probiotics are valuable for digestive health is that they maintain the natural balance of beneficial bacteria in our gut, expelling harmful microbes that can cause various symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, constipation and more.

2. Fight infection and chronic diseases

Probiotics are able to strengthen the immune system and build protection against many diseases. Regularly including fermented foods in your diet can increase protection against common infections.

Some drinks (such as yeast made with beetroot juice) provide antioxidants and naturally help clear bile flow and support liver health, and have detoxifying properties.

In addition, by increasing the absorption of nutrients, the body fights free radical damage and inflammation. Probiotics help prevent symptoms associated with indigestion, skin problems, candida and common colds. In addition to all these benefits, they contribute to heart health.

3. Improve mental health

Did you know that the digestive system is the second largest part of the neurological system and is often called the "second brain"? Healthy probiotic bacteria help in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and other compounds that contribute to positive mood and mental health.

Probiotics also fight leaky gut syndrome and inflammatory reactions that can lead to symptoms such as anxiety or fatigue.

4. May reduce the effects of allergies

By strengthening the immune system can help the gastrointestinal tract. Consumption of probiotic drinks and foods helps reduce the symptoms of lactose intolerance and reduces the risk and effects of food allergies.

5. Good source of nutrients

Many probiotic foods and beverages are not only a great source of gut-friendly bacteria, but also provide some protein, calcium, vitamin B12 and other nutrients (depending on the species). For example, milk kefir provides a number of important minerals, healthy fats and proteins, while fermented vegetable juices are enriched with antioxidants and vitamin C. During fermentation, kambucha is carbonated and the content of the drink includes useful acids, enzymes and vitamins.

An interesting question is whether the probiotic drink will help you lose weight? It is possible that the intake of this type of products instead of carbonated drinks, juices and beer will lead to weight loss.

Each type of probiotic drink is prepared differently, although it follows the same process. They are made with bacteria and yeast that create the fermentation process when combined with sugar.

It is easy to make the product, but it requires some patience. It is important that the ingredients are right. Depending on the type, a specific base is needed (milk, beet juice, coconut water, tea, etc.) plus some types of yeast (kefir grains or kombucha).

You usually need to add a little water with salt or sugar. Do not worry about the use of sugar in beverages, as much of it will be converted into useful acids during fermentation.

Here are some rules to follow :

• Choose a warm place in your home (around 20-22 degrees) to help the fermentation process.
• Use clean water without chemicals to prevent the formation of bad bacteria. Filtered spring water is a good choice. If you use tap water, let it stand overnight to evaporate the chlorine.
• Use the purest possible fruits and vegetables, cereals and sugar. Keep vegetables and fruits fresh. Peel them to remove possible pesticide residues. Cut them into 2-3 cm pieces, but do not grate them.
• Store probiotic drinks in glass jars with lids that have a tight seal. This helps keep the drink fresh for longer and maintains good taste.

In order to get the fermentation, the liquid needs to stand for 1 to 10 days, depending on the type and taste you want to get. Drinks that have been fermented for a shorter time have a less rich taste and are weaker, while others are more saturated. When you reach the desired taste, you can store the product in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to complete the process. Then consume.