Celebrate National Wellness Month this August by nurturing your gut with the goodness of sourdough bread! Sourdough is a fermented bread made with a natural starter culture, packed with beneficial bacteria that promote gut health.
Sourdough bread may have several benefits for gut health, including:
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The fermentation process for sourdough bread can create prebiotic and probiotic-like properties that feed good gut bacteria and improve digestion.
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Lower pHSourdough has a lower pH than regular bread due to organic acids produced by bacteria, which can make it easier on the gut.
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Longer fermentation timeThe long fermentation time of sourdough bread partially breaks down nutrients, which his can be especially helpful for those with digestive issues like bloating or constipation. In addition, the fermentation process in sourdough breaks down complex carbohydrates, making them easier to digest and absorb minerals.
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Fiber and plant compoundsSourdough's fiber and plant compounds, called polyphenols, become more bioavailable during baking, which can fuel gut microbes.
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GlutenSourdough is lower in gluten than other breads because the acid in the bread breaks down some of the gluten. This can make sourdough easier on the stomachs of people with gluten intolerance. However, sourdough bread is not gluten-free and is not safe for people with celiac disease or a gluten allergy, even though the fermentation process can reduce the amount of gluten. If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, you can make your own gluten-free sourdough bread at home using gluten-free flour and ingredients.
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Whole Grain Goodness
Sourdough bread made with whole grains can have additional gut-friendly benefits because whole grains are higher in fiber than processed grain. -
Boosted Immunity
The friendly bacteria in sourdough can strengthen your immune system by promoting a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut microbiome plays a crucial role in fighting off pathogens and keeping you healthy. -
Enhanced Nutrient Availability
Fermentation can increase the bioavailability of certain minerals, such as iron and zinc, making them more readily absorbed by your body. This is improved even more when you freshly grind your own whole grain, like we do at Abigail's Oven.
But the benefits don't stop there! Sourdough bread is also:
- Naturally Tangy and Flavorful: The fermentation process creates a unique tangy flavor profile that many find more enjoyable than regular bread.
- Long Shelf Life: Sourdough stays fresh for longer due to its lower pH level, reducing food waste and saving you money.
National Wellness Month is a great reminder to prioritize your well-being. By incorporating gut-friendly foods like sourdough into your diet, you can take a delicious step towards a healthier you! Enjoy the benefits of fermented foods like sourdough while prioritizing your overall well-being. From stress reduction to improved digestion, small steps can lead to big changes. #NationalWellnessMonth #GutHealth #FermentedFoods.