When it comes to fermented foods, many people think of them as being made with mold fermentation. And when people think of mold, they generally associate it with uncleanliness and unhygienic conditions. Most people have the impression that fermented foods are tasty but should not be consumed in large quantities. Are fermented foods harmful to humans?
What are fermented foods?
Fermented foods are a category of food that people cleverly produce by using beneficial microorganisms for processing. These foods have unique flavors and can be mainly categorized as cereals, legumes, and dairy fermented foods. Common fermented foods include yogurt, cheese, rice wine, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, vinegar, fermented black beans, fermented tofu, yellow rice wine, beer, wine, and even stinky tofu and fermented winter melon. Steamed buns and sweet bean sauce are also considered fermented foods.
Are fermented foods harmful to the human body?
When food becomes moldy, it may produce mycotoxins that can be harmful to human health, especially aflatoxin, which is highly carcinogenic. Therefore, many people believe that any food fermented with mold should not be eaten. However, there are thousands of types of mold, and most of them do not produce toxins. The fermentation molds used in foods like fermented tofu, yellow rice wine, and soy sauce are non-toxic molds, and these foods rarely produce aflatoxin.
What are the benefits of eating fermented foods?
Rich in protein:
Fermented foods are rich in protein. Yeast has been proven to contain various vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. The protein content in 1 kg of dry yeast is equivalent to that in 5 kg of rice, 2 kg of soybeans, or 2.5 kg of pork. Eating fermented foods can enhance the immune system and prevent memory decline.
Protect cardiovascular health:
Fermented soybeans contain abundant anti-thrombotic components that can effectively dissolve blood clots and prevent arteriosclerosis and lower blood pressure. In addition, vinegar contains various amino acids and minerals that can lower blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.
Beneficial for heart health:
Legumes and probiotic yogurt can effectively control the rise of blood pressure and cholesterol levels, prevent arterial hardening, reduce the occurrence of myocardial infarction, and protect blood pressure circulation.
Promote bowel movement:
Fermented foods containing lactic acid bacteria can help balance the intestinal flora, improve bowel movements, and prevent colon cancer. Lactic acid bacteria also have the function of enhancing the body's resistance.
In conclusion, fermented foods have numerous benefits for human health. While there is a concern about mycotoxins from moldy foods, it is important to note that not all molds produce toxins. The majority of molds used in the fermentation of foods are non-toxic. Therefore, consuming fermented foods can be a nutritious and delicious addition to one's diet.
