4 Reasons To Stop Ignoring Sauerkraut
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What if I told you there’s a food out there with the potential to help you boost your mood, reduce your stress level, and increase your metabolism? Our lives are fast-paced, and seemingly, we’re always on the go, so maintaining a healthy work-life balance can feel delicate to manage. When you’re on the go, your eating habits must include nutrient-dense foods that you can eat quickly and easily. Allow me to re-acquaint you with sauerkraut.
Sauerkraut, or fermented cabbage, is said to have been around for over 2,000 years when the Chinese started fermenting in rice wine. Sauerkraut provided rich nutrients during long winters far before the invention of refrigerators. It wasn’t until the 16th century when European’s began creating the recipes that we know today.
Now, let’s talk about the nutrients in Sauerkraut. When creating this “sour cabbage,” the fermentation process produces live bacteria, which have come to be known as beneficial probiotics. These probiotics are known to have several health benefits that range in nutritional value while also contributing to gut health.

1. Sauerkraut supports healthy digestion:
As I mentioned, the fermentation process of making Sauerkraut from cabbage creates live bacteria or good bacteria for your gut. The enzymes assist with breaking down food for better nutrient consumption, reduction of gas, and that bloated feeling.
2. Sauerkraut may help you shed pounds:
Sauerkraut is both low in calories and high in fiber, giving you the ability to feel full longer; subsequently reducing the cravings for unnecessary calories.
3. Sauerkraut strengthens your immune system:
Sauerkraut is rich in vitamin C, probiotics, and iron, all of which contribute to the support of a robust immune system. Probiotics are frequently suggested when taking antibiotics; they can contribute to the reduction of things like the common cold, urinary tract infections and can strengthen the lining of the gut.
4. Sauerkraut reduces stress:
The gut is often referred to as the “second brain.” For example, “the gut microbiota influences the body’s level of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which regulates feelings of happiness.” -Justin Sonnenburg, Erica Sonnenburg. Fundamentally, what you eat can affect your mood. Probiotic-rich foods, like Sauerkraut, improve healthy gut flora, which is linked to reducing stress.
If you want to save time, expend less energy, and do better for your health, incorporate a little sauerkraut into your daily menu for these benefits to your well-being and quality of life. If making Sauerkraut from scratch is too daunting, look for Sauerkraut that is free of preservatives at your local grocery store. You can also switch it up with different varieties from around the world and continue to keep it interesting. Happy eating.
(Source: PubMed)
Aunt Norma's Sauerkraut and Pork
Aunt Norma was my father’s youngest sister. When I was a little girl, she was always in the kitchen with my mom. The two of them worked and talked with an intuitive sync, and it was fun to watch them. These were women who really knew how to cook. My aunt gave this recipe to my mom, and though I don’t recall her making it that often, I put my own stamp on this by adding fennel, which I love, and some additional seasoning.