Popular food that 'slows ageing', helps in weight loss and lowers cholesterol

Kimchi is packed with beneficial ingredients (Image: Getty)

A traditional Korean dish, Kimchi, has the potential to enhance your gut health, aid in weight loss and even decelerate ageing.

Consumed almost daily by millions of Koreans, Kimchi boasts remarkable health benefits.

Kimchi is a customary Korean fermented dish made with an assortment of vegetables, predominantly napa cabbage and Korean radishes.

It's seasoned with a blend of flavours including chilli powder, garlic, ginger and soy or fish sauce, then left to ferment in sealed jars at room temperature for days, weeks, or even longer, reports Gloucestershire Live.

This fermentation process allows beneficial bacteria to flourish, contributing to Kimchi's unique flavour, texture and health-enhancing properties.

Kimchi can also help with inflammation (Image: Getty)

Served as a side with nearly every meal in traditional Korean cuisine, it is typically prepared by families around once a month.

It can be incorporated into rice dishes, stews, tacos, omelettes, burgers, pasta and virtually any dish you wish to add flavour to.

Here, we've outlined some of the significant health benefits associated with eating Kimchi.

Health benefits of consuming Kimchi

Slows biological ageing: Kimchi is brimming with antioxidants and reduces overall inflammation in your body. This has been demonstrated to lower your risk of developing chronic health conditions such as heart disease, and even decrease cancer likelihood.

Promotes digestive health: Kimchi is abundant in probiotics, beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut. This aids with skin, mental and heart health.

Boosts immune system: The fermentation process of kimchi enhances the content of beneficial bacteria, which can bolster the immune system and aid in fighting off infections more effectively.

May improve cholesterol levels: Studies suggest that kimchi can positively impact cholesterol levels by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol and potentially increasing HDL (good) cholesterol.

Aids weight loss: The probiotics present in kimchi can boost metabolism and decrease body fat when included in a balanced diet. Kimchi is delicious and low in calories, allowing you to consume more, feel satiated, but intake fewer calories.