The Amazing Health Benefits of Kimchi

Right then, what are all these amazing health benefits of Kimchi you've been hearing about.

It feels like no matter where you turn, where you look, or what you listen to everyone is banging on about this magical Korean Dish that will solve all of your ailments.  

It feels like it's popped out of nowhere like a crazy Tik Tok fad, but it's actually been around for over 4,000 years.

So we can all breathe easy knowing that it's a company Steven Bartlett isn't invested in like so many of the new health companies that are coming to market the past year.

This is a legit, 4000 year old Korean Dish.

What is Kimchi?

It's a spicy fermented cabbage dish from Korea that's a nutritional powerhouse packed with probiotics, vitamins, and minerals that offer a variety of health benefits.

There's loads of different varieties, the most iconic being the "Baechu Kimchi" made with napa cabbage, salt, garlic, ginger, scallions, fish sauce and gochugaru (Korean Chilli Flake) to give it its red colour and spicy tastte.

Basically, every day items you keep in your kitchen cupboard....

What are the health benefits of Kimchi?

Okay, you're going to start eating this fermented cabbage daily, what's the pay off.  What is going to do for you?

Well, we're still learning about all the health benefits of Kimchi and other fermented food or drinks like Kombucha, Kefir and Kraut.

However, this is what we do know.

1. Gut Health Hero:  Kimchi is teeming with probiotics, the good bacteria that line your gut and aid in digestion., nutrient absorption, and immune function.  These tiny live cultures help crowd out harmful bacteria, preventing digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, and bloating.
   
   
2. Immunity Booster:  The probiotics in Kimchi also play a key role in strengthening your immune system. They help regulate the production of white blood cells, your body's defence against infections, and may even reduce the risk of certain cancers.
   
   
3. Anti-inflammatory Powerhouse: Chronic inflammation is linked to various health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Kimchi's natural anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to its probiotics and antioxidants, can help combat inflammation and protect against these conditions.
   
   
4. Weight Management Aid:  Kimchi is low in calories and fat but high in fibre, making you feel fuller for longer and potentially aiding in weight management. Studies have shown that consuming kimchi regularly may help reduce belly fat and body weight.
   
   
5. Vitamin and Mineral Treasure Trove: Kimchi is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, riboflavin, folate, and iron. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being, supporting everything from bone health to energy production.
   
   
6. Heart Health Protector: The probiotics and antioxidants in kimchi may help improve heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels and blood pressure. This can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
   
   
7. Skin Health Friend: Kimchi's vitamin C content plays a crucial role in collagen production, keeping your skin firm and elastic. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat acne and other skin conditions.
   
   
8. Brainpower Booster:  The choline in Kimchi is essential for brain health and development. It supports memory, learning, and mood, and may even help protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
   
   
9. Culinary Versatility: Kimchi's tangy, spicy flavour adds a unique depth to various dishes. You can enjoy it as a side dish, stir it into stews and soups, use it as a topping for rice or noodles, or even incorporate it into pancakes and omelette. 

How do you eat Kimchi?

I always say you can eat it whatever way you want, it's so versatile.

Have it on top of a burger, have it with any cheese sandwich, have it with any type of meat, especially pork or beef.

Just experiment and enjoy it.

Learn how to make Kimchi at home

We run a number of Kimchi Cooking Classes and Kombucha Tasting Evenings.

You can find out more and book your space here.

You can also buy a range of different Kombuchas in the Functional Drinks Club shop in Otley.

So what are you waiting on, start your gut health transformation with Functional Drinks Club today.