Sauerkraut or ‘ off cabbage ’ is basically ferment cabbage, thought to have originated in China more than 2,000 years ago. The process of zymosis initiates beneficial probiotics, or ‘ live bacteria ’ and its these probiotics, along-with the process of zymosis which makes sauerkraut such a healthy choice. If you buy sauerkraut off-the-rack you should be mindful that many varieties are pasteurised to extend their shelf-life, this kills the beneficial bacteria. Look for ‘ unpasteurized ’ products which should be kept cool .

Reading: Top 5 health benefits of sauerkraut

Contents

1 Top 5 health benefits of sauerkraut

Top 5 health benefits of sauerkraut

1. Source of beneficial nutrients

Sauerkraut is a thoroughly source of fiber a well as vitamins and minerals and being a fermented food it promotes the growth of beneficial probiotics which are crucial for digestive health. The nutritional prize of food, like cabbage, can be enriched by zymosis and it makes the food easy for us to digest. This is because sauerkraut contains enzymes that help the body break down food into smaller, and more easily digestible molecules which in bend helps us absorb more of its nutrients. Sauerkraut is, however, a source of strategic arms limitation talks – this is because a saline solution environment promotes the growth of beneficial Lactobaccili whilst inhibiting the types of bacteria which would lead to spoilage and deterioration .

2. May support the immune system

Most of our immune system is located in our gut, so it may come as no surprise that the gut-supporting properties of sauerkraut may besides be of benefit. The good bacteria or probiotics, from sauerkraut, help oneself to keep the line of your digestive system goodly. A strong gut lining stops any undesirable substances or toxins from ‘ leaking ’ into your soundbox and thereby causing an immune reply. These like bacteria may besides support your lifelike antibodies and reduce your risk of infections. deoxyadenosine monophosphate well as being a source of probiotics, sauerkraut besides provides vitamin C and iron, nutrients known to support a stronger immune response .

3. May support heart health

There are a number of factors supporting sauerkraut ’ second heart healthy properties. first, being fibre-rich and a reservoir of beneficial probiotic bacteria makes sauerkraut utilitarian for balancing cholesterol levels. pilfer is a good source of potassium, that and the probiotic subject may promote lower blood imperativeness. Sauerkraut is besides a informant of vitamin K2 which helps prevent calcium deposits from accumulating in arteries, a potential causal agent of atherosclerosis . Sauerkraut on a spoon resting on a wooden table

4. May improve mood and behaviour

Our agreement of the gut and how it impacts our climate and behavior is fast evolve and it would appear that ferment foods, like sauerkraut, may play an authoritative part. Certain strains of probiotic bacteria, including Lactobacillis helveticus and Bifidobacteria, longum, normally found in sour foods, may improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. They do this by promoting a healthier remainder in the intestine and through their output of compounds called short chain fatso acids which help to reduce ignition and promote a healthier catgut environment. Fermented food may besides support temper and behavior by promoting the intestine ’ s uptake of mood-balancing micronutrients, like magnesium and zinc .

5. May reduce the risk of cancer

Rich in compounds like sulforaphane, boodle is a valuable vegetable to add to your diet. That ’ second because these beneficial compounds, appear to prevent oxidative damage and possibly act in protective way against cancer including colorectal cancer. In a like fashion, fermented boodle and its juices appears to play an effective function.

Is sauerkraut safe for everyone?

Sauerkraut is safe for the majority of people, however, being rich in histamine those with a histamine intolerance, may experience side effects after consuming it. furthermore, if fermented foods are raw to you or you are not used to a fibre-rich diet you may experience symptoms such as bloat and flatulence. Those on order medicine, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors ( MAOI ), should exercise caution when introducing sauerkraut to their diet. This is because sauerkraut may have senior high school levels of tyramine, although amounts appear to vary wide. Introducing fermented foods to person who is critically ailment or immune-compromised should be done with caution and under the guidance of a GP or healthcare professional. When making your own sauerkraut, always follow a recipe and be certain to use sterile equipment, follow zymosis times and temperatures cautiously. Some sauerkrauts are high in salt, so if you follow a broken strategic arms limitation talks diet, determine labels or recipes to assess whether it is appropriate for you. This article was final reviewed on 8 November 2021 by Kerry Torrens. Kerry Torrens is a register dietician ( MBANT ) with a graduate student diploma in individualized nutrition and nutritional therapy. She is a member of the british Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine ( BANT ) and a member of the Guild of Food Writers. Over the death 15 years she has been a contributing generator to a phone number of nutritional and cooking publications, including BBC Good Food.