Shahid Kapoor, like his wife Mira Kapoor, believes in starting the day with a warm and light breakfast. Sharing his morning meal preferences, the Jersey actor told CurlyTales, “My mornings are usually about uthappam or idli, something very light. But I like to eat a hot meal because it is very good for your system, especially in Ayurveda.”

Are Fermented Foods Recommended for Breakfast Every Day?

Why Should You Have Fermented Foods?

In India, people have been enjoying a variety of fermented foods for decades. These foods are prepared through fermentation, often overnight, and are known to be beneficial for overall health as they release beneficial antioxidants. According to Divya Malik Dhawan, a dietitian at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Delhi, fermented foods like uthappam and idlis are great for gut health and can ease digestion.

Things to Keep in Mind

While fermented foods can be very beneficial, they can also cause “certain allergic reactions if eaten in larger quantities.” Dhawan mentions, “Some fermented foods may contain excessive amounts of salt and sugar for preservation, which can cause various health issues such as gas, bloating, and even diarrhea. Fermentation is often done with the help of yeast, which makes the food twice the size and grows dense, forming tiny bubbles.”

To minimize these risks, Dhawan advises making the batter at home. “Readymade idli and dosa batter may contain an excess amount of preservatives to keep it fermented for a longer duration without spoiling,” she explains.

How Often Should You Have Fermented Foods?

Dhawan suggests eating fermented foods in moderation, recommending idli, dosa, or uthappam twice a week rather than every day. “It is essential to gauge how your body responds after eating to understand what works for you and what doesn’t,” says Dhawan.