Fermented foods (think sauerkraut, yoghurt, sourdough) are full of friendly bacteria and active enzymes that help break down animal proteins and carbohydrates in the gut. Digestive health is an often-overlooked factor in overall health, but using some foods as medicine can cause a significant improvement for those with digestive problems.
Fermented foods can be more effective than probiotic pills, says local fermented-food advocate Anna Surrey. You might have seen her at the local markets, or seen her foods for sale locally – her business is called Alive Food Byron Bay. Annie says many of her customers tend to struggle silently with gut problems, and she’s running a ‘luxury’ retreat over the June long weekend in Byron for women who want to improve their digestion, with a ‘belly-friendly’ menu.
You can learn the arts of fermentation combined with mindfulness and mind-body sessions, all designed to improve digestive health.
n For more see www.forliferetreats.com.au.