Ferment Your Way to a Supercharged Gut Must-Try Foods for Ultimate Microbiome Health

Lisette Marie

21. Chaas: India’s Fermented Buttermilk Drink

Spiced Buttermilk or Chaas. Photo Credit: Envato @stockimagefactory

Chaas, also known as Indian buttermilk, is a refreshing probiotic beverage made by blending yogurt with water and spices like cumin and mint. Unlike store-bought buttermilk, chaas is naturally fermented and teeming with beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and reduce bloating. It is commonly consumed after meals to support gut health and cooling digestion. Its probiotic content helps balance gut flora while providing hydration.

22. Bagoong: The Fermented Seafood Paste from the Philippines

Shrimp paste (bagoong) manufacturing in Tai O. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @方畢�

Bagoong is a traditional Filipino condiment made from fermented fish or shrimp, often used to add depth and umami to dishes. This pungent, salty paste is packed with probiotics that aid digestion and promote gut health. Bagoong is commonly used in stews, dips, and even as a topping for tropical fruits like green mangoes. Despite its strong flavor, it is an incredibly nutrient-dense, gut-friendly food.

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21. Chaas: India’s Fermented Buttermilk Drink

22. Bagoong: The Fermented Seafood Paste from the Philippines

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