What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Sauerkraut Regularly

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What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Sauerkraut Regularly

Sauerkraut, a fermented food made from cabbage, has gained popularity in recent years. Its unique blend of probiotic bacteria, vitamins, and minerals has been touted as a “superfood.” But what exactly happens to your body when you eat sauerkraut regularly?

Health Benefits of Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is more than just a tangy condiment for your hot dogs or sausages. It has a multitude of health benefits that can transform your body from the inside out. Here are just a few of the positive effects of regular sauerkraut consumption:

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Increased Fiber Intake

A 1-cup serving of sauerkraut packs 4 grams of filling fiber, making it a good source of this under-consumed nutrient. This is especially important for promoting regular bowel movements and maintaining a healthy digestive system.

Improved Gut Health

Sauerkraut is a fermented food that may support gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria into the digestive system. Research reveals that consuming fermented foods like sauerkraut can lead to positive changes in gut health and a stronger immune system.

Boosted Immune System

Sauerkraut is an excellent source of vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that plays a crucial role in immune health. Consuming sauerkraut regularly can help keep your immune system strong and resilient.

Skin Health

Vitamin C in sauerkraut also helps promote healthy skin by building collagen, a structural protein necessary for skin elasticity and firmness. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Sauerkraut Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 27
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Dietary Fiber: 4 g
• Total Sugar: 3 g
• Added Sugar: 0 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Total Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 0 g
• Sodium: 939 mg
• Iron: 2 mg
• Vitamin C: 21 mg
• Vitamin K: 19 ug
• Folate: 34 mcg

Tips for Enjoying Sauerkraut

In a Salad, Soup, or Sandwich

Spice up your salad, soup, or sandwich with a tablespoon or two of sauerkraut. Try it in a simple recipe like BBQ Carrot Dog or in a hearty Soup Beans with Cornbread & Kraut.

With Potatoes

Combining sauerkraut with potatoes creates a rich and delicious dish. Try it in our Sauerkraut & Sausage Casserole or in this Chicken Sausage with Potatoes & Sauerkraut.

In a Bun

“As a native New Yorker, the best way to eat sauerkraut is on a hot dog!” says Beth Rosen, a registered dietitian specializing in gut health. Feel free to get creative and top your favorite foods with sauerkraut!

Frequently Asked Questions

• 
  What happens if you eat sauerkraut every day?

  For some people, sauerkraut may pose no problem. For others, overconsumption may lead to abdominal discomfort, pain, bloating, or water retention due to its high sodium content. It’s best to get to know your individual response before eating it daily.

• 
  What does sauerkraut do to your body?

  Sauerkraut is rich in gut-friendly microbes for a healthy gut and immune system, plus it’s rich in vitamin C for healthy skin and fiber for regular digestion.

• 
  Does sauerkraut clean out your gut?

  There is no single food that acts as a magic pill to “clean out your gut.” However, sauerkraut’s fiber may ease constipation. “Eating regularly and adequately [throughout the day] keeps that system running well,” says Beth Rosen.

The Bottom Line

Sauerkraut can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet. This fermented food provides live bacteria that are good for your gut and immune system, and its fiber may help prevent constipation. Plus, its vitamin C can help keep your skin healthy. At the same time, it is high in sodium, so you may want to keep serving sizes small, especially if you’re watching your blood pressure.

Start with a tablespoon or two to give your digestive system time to adjust, and enjoy sauerkraut in a variety of dishes. It’s a delicious and healthy way to spice up your meals!