Sauerkraut is really full of the good stuff. Read on to find out more about its health benefits.
Probiotics – mainly lactic acid bacteria (far more friendly than they sound). Much of this healthy bacteria will make it all the way to the gut to join the microbiome party – the more the merrier (generally!). Some of the bacterial species in sauerkraut are L. mesenteroides, L. plantarum, and L. brevis which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunity-supporting characteristics. And as our understanding of the gut-brain connection increases, it’s becoming more evident that a healthy balance and diverse range of gut bacteria can improve our mood, memory and stress levels. Fermented foods like sauerkraut are a great way to help your gut bacteria flourish.
Fibre to feed the microbiome and promote healthy digestion
Vitamin K2 – more difficult to find than the K1 in leafy green veg but with important benefits for heart health and bone health. It’s also made by our gut bacteria, so another reason to keep them well nourished!
Antioxidants – to repair the daily wear and tear that happens in our cells
Vitamin C – 20% of daily requirments in half a cup of kraut
You can buy ready-made sauerkraut but go for the unpasteurised versions if you want the good bacteria to still be alive and kicking. Or you can make your own which is a lot cheaper and pretty fun – I’ll be posting about this soon!
It’s good in a cheese sandwich; with egg or sasauge-based dishes; with potato salads, burgers; you can add it as a side to just about anything.
