If you are well-versed in Korean foods, either by watching K-Dramas or exploring Korean cuisine yourself, you must be familiar with the popular side dish – Kimchi. For the uninitiated, kimchi is a traditional Korean fermented food consumed daily with the rest of the meal. It is usually made of cabbage that is fermented after seasoning it with sugar, salt, onions, garlic, ginger, and chilli peppers. Kimchi can also be prepared using other veggies such as radish, celery, carrot, cucumber, and spinach. Kimchi has a tangy, spicy, and slightly sour taste, which complements Korean main dishes. Apart from its interesting flavour and texture, kimchi also has multiple health and skin benefits. No wonder Koreans are known for their ‘glass skin’ — clear, acne-free, smooth, and hydrated. Let’s take a deeper look at how kimchi can benefit your skin health, as explained by Dr Niti Gaur, MD, Fellowship in Cosmetic Dermatology (Singapore, USA), Board-Certified Dermatologist, Founder of Citrine Clinic, Gurgaon:
Here Are 4 Reasons Why Korean Kimchi Can Be Good For Your Skin:
1. Probiotics: Kimchi is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria known to support gut health. A healthy gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a key factor in overall well-being, including skin health. Probiotics can help maintain a balanced gut environment, potentially reducing skin inflammation and improving conditions such as acne and eczema.
Also Read: Fan Of K-Culture? This South Korean Food Guide Should Be On Your Menu
2. Antioxidants: Kimchi contains various antioxidants, including vitamins A and C, which are essential for skin health. Antioxidants help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, environmental stressors, and UV radiation. By reducing oxidative stress, antioxidants in kimchi can contribute to a more radiant and youthful-looking complexion.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The fermentation process involved in making kimchi produces bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a common factor in skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and premature ageing. Consuming kimchi may help modulate inflammatory responses, potentially benefiting the skin.
4. Vitamin and Mineral Content: Kimchi is a good source of nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. These nutrients play essential roles in skin health, contributing to collagen synthesis, wound healing, and overall skin integrity.
Also Read: This Kimchi Fried Rice Will Make Your Meal A Delicious Affair
Note: Dr Niti Gaur also shares that individual responses to dietary changes can vary, and some people may experience sensitivity to certain ingredients commonly found in kimchi, such as chilli peppers or specific seasonings. As with any dietary modification, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional, including a dermatologist, especially if you have existing skin conditions or food sensitivities.
Can’t wait to reap all these amazing skin-health benefits of kimchi? Here is a full step-by-step recipe to make kimchi at home.
