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Monsoons mean an increase in humidity, which brings flu season and a heightened risk of contracting red eye or conjunctivitis. Be it bacterial or viral, conjunctivitis can cause intense discomfort and pain and is contagious. Eye health is closely related to gut health and the thousands of gut microbes that are constantly working towards keeping the body healthy and ridding it of harmful toxins.
Gut microbes are connected to several ocular diseases including glaucoma and cataracts. Changes in gut microbes can affect inflammatory pathways which in turn affect the body's tendency to fight disease, absorb nutrients and boost overall fitness. When the gut health is affected, it can have a direct impact on vision, can cause dry eyes and infections like uveitis.
A healthy gut is the path towards healthy eyes. Improving gut health and the growth of gut flora and biomes which boost healthy digestion, reduction of oxidative stress and lowered tendency to contract infections, is extremely essential especially during flu season.
Probiotics and fermented foods play a big role in promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria. They contain live bacteria which are useful for nutrient absorption and balancing pH levels in the body. By helping to protect the lining of the gut, they fortify healthy gut microbiomes leading to smooth digestion. Here are some fermented foods and probiotics that can boost gut health and in turn promote healthy eyes:
Yoghurt/Curd
Made from fermenting milk using lactic acid, curd or yoghurt is one of the richest sources of probiotics, extremely useful for improving gastrointestinal health. Be sure to pick yoghurt which contains live bacteria and is without sugar for optimum benefits.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk is curd mixed in water and churned to acquire an inviting froth. It contains active bacteria and can be had after lunch to boost digestion. Buttermilk with some cumin powder and salt has a delicious flavour and can also aid in bettering gut health.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk is curd mixed in water and churned to acquire an inviting froth. It contains active bacteria and can be had after lunch to boost digestion. Buttermilk with some cumin powder and salt has a delicious flavour and can also aid in bettering gut health.
Pickles
Sour, tangy, lip-smacking pickles that have been left to ferment for a long time produce their own lactic acids and bacteria that promote gut health. Additionally, they are low on calories and rich in vitamins that reduce the risk of blood clotting.
Kimchi
Another tangy delight which works as a delicious side in a meal, kimchi is generally made by fermenting cabbage. Other vegetables can also be mixed in during the fermentation process. The lactic acid bacteria produced during fermentation can aid gut health.
Sauerkraut
A variation of fermented cabbage, this is a popular dish in eastern Europe made from shredded cabbage and lactic acid. It is easy to reproduce in Indian kitchens and can be stored just like pickles. Sauerkraut is rich in antioxidants, fibre and potassium too.
Idli
Fermented urad dal and rice, steamed and had with chutney is an excellent source of probiotics that can boost digestive processes. Having idli for breakfast can be easy on the stomach especially during monsoons when the digestive fire is already burning low.
Cheese
Some varieties of cheese whose making process includes live cultures or active cultures are good sources of probiotics. Semi-hard cheeses like gouda, mozzarella or cottage cheese contain higher levels of probiotics since they are aged for a shorter time. However, for maximum benefits, cheeses should be had like a mini meal by themselves, instead of consuming them through pastas or sandwiches.
