Fresh and raw foods might be widely regarded as the most vital part of your diet, but fermented foods can be just as important for a healthy gut.The process of fermentation increases the nutritional content of food and its digestibility, while also boosting the immune system and decreasing the prevalence of allergies. Fermented foods contain beneficial probiotics, digestive enzymes and healthy nutrients, which target bloating, irritable bowels and flatulence. Some of these symptoms can be caused by issues in people’s everyday lives, including the consumption of the oral contraceptive pill, chlorine in drinking water and even stress. Antibiotics, however, are one of the most significant problems because they kill good bacteria as well as the bad bacteria that they are prescribed for.The fermentation process involves steeping the food, which turns its sugars and carbohydrates into good bacteria. During this process, naturally occurring healthy micro-organisms create lactic acid as a by-product. Consumers will find plenty of fermented food options on the market today. Three of the most beneficial are Kefir, a fermented milk drink, miso paste, and fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut. To sustain a healthy gut, experts recommend including fermented foods in your daily diet.Image: hrk422/Shutterstock