The Sourdough School

BALM – Proven as one of the healthiest approaches to bread in the world.

Based in the walled gardens of Dr. Vanessa Kimbell's beautiful Victorian home in rural Northamptonshire, UK, we tutor individuals and train bakers and healthcare professionals in Baking as Lifestyle Medicine (BALM). Personalising bread to your lifestyle, gut microbiome, and unique genetics for optimal health—tailoring fermentation, fibre, and diversity so that your daily bread becomes the foundation of your health.

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How does the program address the psychological aspects of eating and diet, such as habits or emotional eating?


Personalised eating, as embodied in the BALM protocol, is pivotal in addressing the physiological aspects of your dietary habits. The essence of this protocol’s success lies in its practical application. It’s not solely about crafting a recipe; it’s about formulating a baking method that caters to your digestive needs and integrates seamlessly into your daily life. This approach encourages the development of a rhythm and routine, providing support throughout the process.

The key to this method is in its simplicity and habitual nature. The aim is to create recipes that become second nature to you, akin to effortless daily activities like brushing your teeth or walking the dog. These small, ritualistic acts, such as refreshing your sourdough starter, are infused with mindfulness techniques, like focused breathing. This practice is designed to offer a moment of respite, even amidst a hectic day, allowing you to reset your parasympathetic nervous system while performing a simple yet rewarding task. This ensures your starter is vibrant and ready for the next day’s baking.

Incorporating these practices into your life is what makes the BALM protocol more than just a dietary change; it’s a form of lifestyle medicine. The rituals and routines you establish are not just about baking or eating; they are about nurturing your well-being at every level.

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