When we talk about family traditions, we most often recall shared holidays, values, and, of course, eating habits. However, modern science suggests looking at the family from a completely new angle - as a single microbial ecosystem. Studies prove that the composition of our intestinal microflora depends not so much on genetics as on the environment: the greatest influence on the formation of our microbiome is who we live with.

Humanity has made great strides: we have explored space, landed on the moon, and developed artificial intelligence, but until recently we knew almost nothing about the universe that exists inside our own bellies. We used to think of ourselves as completely autonomous beings, but science has proven a startling fact: we are colonized.

Every year, the medical and scientific community celebrates World Digestive Health Day to draw attention to the critical role of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) in our lives. For a long time, the digestive system was considered only as a mechanism for processing food, but today we know that it is the center of our immunity, metabolism and even mental health.

Holidays, family gatherings, and spring and summer picnics are traditionally associated with joy and relaxation. However, for our gastrointestinal tract (GI), this period often turns into a real test. Consuming large amounts of processed foods, meat, fried foods, sweets, and alcohol leads to a feeling of heaviness, flatulence (bloating), heartburn, and bowel movements.

Today, the whole world is fascinated by fermented foods: Hollywood stars drink kombucha, and nutritionists advise kimchi and tempeh. However, we often forget that Ukrainian traditional cuisine has had powerful tools for maintaining health for centuries — its own fermented dishes. From ordinary sauerkraut to unique drinks based on the milk of a gray Ukrainian cow and herbs.