My kimchi actually made a difference for my bloating...
I've had trouble with bloating for a while now... always feeling puffy after meals. Store-bought fermented foods never really helped, so I tried making kimchi at home. The first batch was too salty, and the second one didn't ferment right... it was frustrating. This time, I measured the salt better and left it for seven days in a cool spot. The taste came out tangy and crunchy, just how I like it. I've been having a small scoop with dinner every night, and my stomach feels much calmer. It's nice to see something I made myself actually improve how I feel. Might try sauerkraut next... see if it helps too.
Getting the salt right on that third batch must have been a relief. It's really satisfying when you finally nail a homemade ferment after a couple fails. Glad it's working out for you.
Honestly the fun part is learning what the ferment smells like each day. That third batch probably didn't just get the salt right, it went through a whole vibe shift in the jar. The first fail might have been too quiet, the second too funky, but the third hit that perfect sour note. It's a waiting game where you're just hoping the smells head in a tasty direction. Nailing the recipe is one thing, but catching the right wave of bubbles and tang is the real win.