Why fermented foods are so good for your gut, and how to eat more of them

PremiumAnahad O’Connor Washington Post·18 Jun, 2026 06:00 PM5 mins to readFermented foods are enjoying a resurgence in large part because of research illustrating their nutritional benefits. Photo / 123rfScientists have found that they may lower inflammation, improve blood sugar control and increase the diversity of your gut microbiome.

Almost every culture on earth has fermented foods in its traditional cuisine. These foods – from yoghurt to sauerkraut to kimchi and kefir – are made with microorganisms that transform