These days, everyone’s talking about gut health — and it’s not just another wellness buzzword! Our gut affects everything: digestion, mood, energy, and even skin.
And one of the tastiest ways to care for your gut? Fermented foods! 🥰
Fermentation isn’t new to us Filipinos — we’ve been doing it for generations! From bagoong and atchara to burong mangga, these flavorful staples are actually functional foods that are good for your health.
What Are Functional & Fermented Foods?
“Functional foods” are foods that do more than just fill you up — they support your body’s natural functions.
Fermented foods, on the other hand, are made when natural bacteria convert sugars into acids — creating probiotics that keep your gut healthy and strong.
Some of the most common fermented foods include:
- Yogurt and kefir
- Kimchi and sauerkraut
- Kombucha (fermented tea)
- Miso and tempeh
- Filipino favorites like bagoong, burong mustasa, and atchara
5 Easy Ways to Add Fermented Foods to Your Diet
1. Add Yogurt to Breakfasts
Top your morning fruit bowl or overnight oats with a dollop of yogurt. It adds creaminess and probiotics.
2. Pair Kimchi with Rice Bowls
Kimchi’s spicy, tangy flavor brightens up grilled meats or simple fried rice — plus it’s amazing for digestion.
3. Make Homemade Atchara
Use green papaya, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of salt. It’s the perfect side to fried dishes like longganisa or tapa.
4. Sip on Kombucha or Kefir
A refreshing alternative to soda! Try one with ginger or lemon for an immune boost.
5. Add Miso to Soups and Sauces
A spoonful of miso can turn a simple soup into a savory, gut-friendly meal.
Mommy Peach Tip:
Start small — your gut needs time to adjust to probiotics. A spoonful a day of yogurt or a few bites of kimchi is a great start!
What I love most about fermented foods is how they connect health and flavor. You don’t have to eat bland to eat healthy — you just have to eat smart.
Whether it’s a bowl of sinangag with atchara or a glass of kombucha on a hot afternoon, these foods remind us that nature’s best flavors often come with the best benefits.
