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Have you wondered why Korean celebrities have such dewy, flawless-looking complexion? We’ve learnt about their skincare habits (10-step skincare routine, anyone?) and makeup techniques, but the secret may actually lie with their diet.
We’re calling it out: we think it has something to do with Kimchi, a staple Korean dish that you can find in any Korean meal. And here’s why we think so.

What is Kimchi?

Kimchi, also known as kimchee or gimchi, is a traditional fermented Korean side dish made with vegetables and a variety of seasonings. Approach any Koreans and they will most likely tell you that other than rice, Kimchi is another national staple of theirs.
It is said that an average Korean consumes about 18kg of Kimchi annually! According to VisitKorea, there are actually up to 180 varieties of Kimchi, with the ingredients used being influenced by the seasons, as well as regions.

Benefits of consuming Kimchi

1. Fermented goodness

Being a fermented dish, Kimchi contains lots of probiotics that can help to fight off various infections in your body. One of the most significant of all, Lactobacillus – don’t be frightened by its scientific name – is actually a beneficial bacteria for us; otherwise categorised as a “healthy bacteria” alike those found in yogurt.

Thus, eating Kimchi could actually aid your digestive system (say no to constipation!), as well as keeping inflammation at bay; inside and out. Yes, this means that eating Kimchi might help to reduce the appearance of pimples, which is caused by inflammation, for a clearer and healthier skin!

2. Reducing body weight

sudden weight loss

In addition to the above-mentioned goodness, Lactobacillus can help in losing weight as well. It does its magic by helping us to reduce our urge for eating, as well as controlling our blood sugar levels.

Being high in fibre, Kimchi also helps to keep our stomach full for a longer time, allowing us to avert taking in too much snacks and junk food. Moreover, the chili pepper used for marination can boost our metabolism, thus helping us to burn more calories in the long run. Moreover, 150g of Kimchi only contains about 40 calories!

3. Healthy heart and a healthy you

Garlic is one of the main seasonings of Kimchi. It contains selenium and allicin, both have been scientifically proven to reduce cholesterol levels. This aids in preventing your heart from cardiovascular diseases or any sort of heart problems with frequent consumption.
Selenium is also beneficial for our hair. Apart from improving the quality of our hair, selenium also aids hair growth and gives our hair a healthy glow.

4. Rich in vitamins

When your parents asked you to eat more carrots when you were young,we hope you did so. Carrots are high in Vitamin A, just like Kimchi. It helps to promote clear and healthy vision, in addition to acting as a antioxidant which can help to get rid of free radicals. You heard it right, it can help to suppress cancer-causing radicals in your body.

Aside from Vitamin A, Kimchi is also high in Vitamin C, which can whiten our skin, aid in the production of collagen along with rejuvenating our skin. Not forgetting that Vitamin C is a companion in reducing blemishes and spots!

5. Slowing down the ageing process

Being a great source of Vitamin A and C, Kimchi is not only healthy, but also helpful in slowing down the process of ageing. The rate of skin ageing is decreased given the amount of antioxidants Kimchi contains.

The anti-inflammatory properties also helps to regulate and cripple inflammation that speeds up ageing. By curbing cell oxidation, it will help you to look more relaxed than you really are.

6. Enjoyable in many ways

Besides being a side dish, Kimchi can be enjoyed in several other ways. There are many recipes available online for you to try them out if you are a little chef in your own kitchen.

Simply mix them in batter and you can have it as a savoury pancake! Otherwise, stir them in with eggs and it becomes a main dish for all to enjoy. If eating them piece by piece is not a thing for you, stir fry it with white rice to enjoy.