6 Least Known Health Benefits Of Sauerkraut

Are you familiar with Sauerkraut? This traditional German dish may have a humble name, meaning "sour cabbage," but its history and health benefits are anything but ordinary. Originating in China during the construction of the Great Wall, Sauerkraut made its way to Europe, where it became a beloved component of various cuisines. This fermented cabbage dish is created by finely cutting cabbage and allowing it to ferment with the aid of lactic acid bacteria, resulting in its distinctive tangy flavor and numerous health benefits. Let's delve deeper into the world of Sauerkraut and explore the reasons why it has become a popular choice for both culinary enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.

# Helps in Weight Loss

Regular consumption of Sauerkraut helps in weight reduction. It happens because Sauerkraut is made from cabbage. It is a vegetable that has very low calories and high fiber content. A high fiber diet helps you keep full for a long time. As a result, you eat fewer calories, and your weight is decreased. It is also rich in Probiotics which lead to a trimmed waistline. Certain Probiotics can break down fats and lower the bioavailability of fat molecules in the diet.

# Reduces the Stress Level

What you eat affects both your mood and brain function. There is a connection between gut health and brain function. If your gut is healthy, then your stress level will decrease. The bacteria present in your gut send signals to the brain. They influence the way the brain functions. Sauerkraut is a fermented food product that is loaded with Probiotics. It leads to a healthy gut by increasing the healthy microflora. This can help in the reduction of stress levels and improve brain function. Probiotics in Sauerkraut improve memory and reduce autism, anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

# Rich in Vitamins

As Sauerkraut is a fermented food, components like protein and carbohydrates have been broken down into easily digestible compounds. As a result, it is a rich source of vitamin B, C, and K. It is a rich source of dietary fiber and contains many valuable minerals like iron, copper, and even potassium.

Our body needs a healthy source of essential minerals and vitamins as they aid in improving metabolic activities. By opting to include Sauerkraut in your diet, you will be able to enjoy the intake of all these vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, owing to the fermentation of cabbage, the bioavailability of the nutrients is increased significantly.

# Makes the Bones Strong

Vitamin K2 plays an essential role in building strong bones. Sauerkraut has high quantities of this bone-forming vitamin.

Vitamin K2 stimulates two proteins that bind to calcium, the most abundant mineral in bones. This process makes the bones grow stronger and healthier. Therefore, vitamin K2 is beneficial to bone health.

# Acts As Cancer Inhibitor

Doctors and nutritionists have often said that sticking to the proper diet can be extremely crucial in dealing with cancer. As per research conducted on the use of Sauerkraut, it has been found that it works as a cancer inhibitor.

When cabbage gets fermented to form Sauerkraut, it produces a substance known as isothiocyanates. This compound prevents cancer, especially in the colon, breast, and lungs. For example, many research studies have indicated decreasing breast cancer count in women who incorporated a lot of Sauerkraut in their diet.

# Strengthens the Digestive System

If you are suffering from digestion problems, eating Sauerkraut can turn out to be of help. The fact that it is rich in dietary fiber makes it efficient in cleaning the digestive system, and those who suffer from constipation can use Sauerkraut to get rid of the problem. It also contains live lactobacilli bacteria which aids in speeding up the natural digestive system. These are essential microorganisms (probiotics) that are critical for the smooth working of the digestive system. They also help to combat inflammation.