Health Benefits of Kimchi - Super Food?
Kimchi is an incredibly healthy food as it is loaded with many vitamins such as A, B, and C. It contains healthy bacteria due to the fermentation process. It is high in fiber and low in fat and in Korea it used on almost everything or as a side dish! You'll find it with soup, pancakes and even on pizza.
Health Benefits
Digestion: Kimichi is a great source of probiotics due to the process of fermentation that is used for its prep. Thus, it is a great food for the promotion of digestion. Fermenting the cabbage that is used for Kimchi creates a bacteria called Lactobacillus which is good and necessary to promote healthy intestinal flora. Kimchi is also a good source of fiber which aids in the fight against constipation!
Cholesterol: Consumption of Kimchi on a regular basis is beneficial for lowering cholesterol. This is largely in part due to the fact that garlic in included when producing kimchi which is rich in selenium and allicin. Allicin helps lower cholesterol levels and selenium promotes a positive effect on the artery walls.
Antioxidants: Kimchi provides a lot of antioxidants, phenols, and flavonoids which promote an effect against oxidative damages as well as shielding the body from harmful effects of oxygen free radicals.
Atopic Dermatitis & Anti-obesity: Lactobacillus bacteria makes another appearance on this list as it promotes a therapeutic effect on many skin ailments including atopic dermatitis. Lactobacillus also has another effect which helps with weight loss. It helps control appetite as well as reducing blood sugar levels. The fiber present in kimchi also helps the body feel full for a longer time.
Immune System: Many of the ingredients used in the preparation are highly known for their beneficial effect on the immune system.
Cancer: Kimchi is also a food known to help reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer. Cabbage is known for helping inhibit cancer cell growth.
Health Risk
Much has been written here stating how healthy kimchi is for your health. However, as with many things, an excessive amount of kimchi can take a harmful effect on your health.
Cancer: Once again cancer makes an appearance on this list. Individuals who eat excessive amounts of kimchi, which is common in Korea, are up to 50% more likely to suffer from gastric cancer.
Blood Pressure: This can be hit or miss as low sodium options are available. Some store bought kimchi can be high in sodium. Make sure to check the label if you suffer from high blood pressure.
Bottom Line
I think everyone should try kimchi. Many will like it and many will not. You won't know if you don't try! However, with many things, everything in moderation as an excessive (pretty much everything) amount can be harmful to your health. If I had to describe that taste I would say it is salty and maybe a bit spicy and at times even a bit sour. Many different types of kimchi exist and I bet with a bit of searching most people can find a type that fits their taste.
Sources:
Organic Facts: Health Benefits Of Kimchi
LA Times: Koreans' Kimchi Adulation, With a Side of Skepticism
Health.Com: World's Healthiest Foods: Kimchi (Korea)
Shin, A., Kim, J., & Park, S. (2011). Gastric Cancer Epidemiology in Korea. Journal of Gastric Cancer, 135-140. doi:10.5230/jgc.2011.11.3.135
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i hear its good probiotics, i wouldn't mind to try it
You should! I love it, but I've eaten it most of my life.