can fermented foods help with common digestive issues like acidity and bloating?

16 Feb 2025

I

2 mins

Dr. Annewsha Acharjee

Ayurveda @ Lavi

hey there, fellow health enthusiasts! today, we're talking about a common concern that affects millions of people around the world: digestive issues. 

from acidity and bloating to gas cramps, digestive problems can be uncomfortable, painful, and even debilitating. but did you know that fermented foods can help alleviate these issues? 

let's dive in and explore the fascinating world of fermented foods and their potential benefits for digestive health, with a focus on indian examples.

first, let's talk about acidity. acidity is a common digestive issue that occurs when the stomach produces too much acid, leading to heartburn, bloating, and discomfort. fermented foods like kanji, a popular fermented drink from punjab, and dhokla, a fermented rice and lentil dish from gujarat, contain probiotics, which can help regulate the stomach's acid production and reduce acidity. additionally, fermented foods are rich in fiber, which can help slow down digestion and reduce symptoms of acidity.

next, let's talk about bloating. bloating is a common digestive issue that occurs when gas builds up in the digestive system, leading to discomfort, pain, and even embarrassment. fermented foods like idli, a fermented rice and lentil dish from south india, and dosa, a fermented rice and lentil crepe from south india, contain probiotics, which can help regulate the gut microbiome and reduce bloating. 

but how do fermented foods actually help with digestive issues? the answer lies in the probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, that are present in fermented foods. probiotics can help regulate the gut microbiome, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in the digestive system. additionally, fermented foods are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help promote digestive health and reduce symptoms of acidity and bloating.

so, which indian fermented foods are best for digestive health? here are some of our top picks:

- kanji: this fermented drink from punjab is made from carrots, beets, and spices and is rich in probiotics, fiber, and vitamins that can help regulate the gut microbiome and reduce symptoms of acidity and bloating.

- dhokla: this fermented rice and lentil dish from gujarat is rich in probiotics, protein, and fiber that can help promote digestive health and reduce symptoms of acidity and bloating.

- idli: this fermented rice and lentil dish from south india is rich in probiotics, fiber, and vitamins that can help regulate the gut microbiome and reduce symptoms of acidity and bloating.

- dosa: this fermented rice and lentil crepe from south india is rich in probiotics, fiber, and vitamins that can help promote digestive health and reduce symptoms of acidity and bloating.

in conclusion, fermented foods can be a game-changer for digestive health. by incorporating indian fermented foods like kanji, dhokla, idli, and dosa into your diet, you can help regulate the gut microbiome, reduce symptoms of acidity and bloating, and promote overall digestive health. so, go ahead and give these indian fermented foods a try – your gut will thank you!

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