5 health benefits of kimchi you should know
Kimchi, a spicy pickled dish that tastes scrummy, is the national food of South Korea. It is traditionally made using lots of cabbage, scallions, and radishes, that are seasoned with garlic, ginger, chili pepper, and fish sauce. Crunchy and flavorful, it is loaded with a lot of health benefits that easily make it a worthy dish scoring high on nutrition.
Can improve digestive health
Kimchi is a fermented food item, which makes it a great source of probiotics. Probiotics, as we know, are good for gut health and help one maintain a smooth digestion process. It is packed with good bacteria that keep your intestines strong and active. Fermented foods like kimchi can help you steer clear of irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, and gas.
May improve heart health
Besides improving digestion, probiotics are also good for promoting heart health. Not just that, probiotics have also shown efficacy in lowering cholesterol levels and inflammation in the body, which are two big factors in many heart-related ailments. Various studies reveal that kimchi can reduce the chances of suffering from atherosclerosis, all thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering properties.
May boost immunity
Kimchi has a decent amount of good bacteria called Lactobacillus, which are known to boost immunity. Various studies have concluded this bacteria's immunity-enhancing effect makes kimchi a preferred healthy dish among many. As per a study conducted on mice, the ones that were injected with Lactobacillus had lower levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF alpha), an inflammatory marker.
Can delay aging
One of the most-loved and important health benefits of kimchi is that it delays aging, as backed by science. In a study, the human cells that were treated with kimchi showcased increased viability and also extended their life span regardless of their age. In addition to this, the veggies and seasonings used in it act as powerful antioxidants and inhibit skin aging.
May aid in weight loss
Since kimchi is fermented, it contains fewer calories, helping you lose weight naturally. As per a four-week study conducted, 22 overweight people who ate kimchi experienced a reduction in their body mass index (BMI) and overall body fat. In addition to this, kimchi also decreased their blood sugar levels. Furthermore, it is packed with fiber that enhances its weight loss effects.
