Sauerkraut is referred to ‘fermented cabbage’ that is used as a traditional food sources since 4th century BC. Also, it is one of the oldest forms of preserved cabbage having a wide range of excellent health benefits.
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1. Prevents atopic dermatitis
Fermented foods have good effects on the prevention as well as management of the atopic dermatitis. A study has revealed that a high intake of fermented foods like sauerkraut is associated with lower prevalence of atopic dermatitis. Also, atopic dermatitis is also a long-lasting skin condition characterized by red as well as itchy skin.
2. Prevents asthma
Fermented vegetables have several biological compounds like vitamin C, minerals, beta-carotene, and dietary fibre along with the phytochemicals as well as lactic acid bacteria. Some strains of the lactic acid bacteria found in the fermented foods are considered to possess strong immune-enhancing impacts against allergic diseases like asthma. So, sauerkraut might help in the prevention of asthma.
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3. Reduces risk of diabetes
The presence of fatty acids, lactic acids, and alcohol in fermented foods has amazing health-promoting benefits. It might help in the management of metabolic disorders like diabetes. The antidiabetic property of the sauerkraut is due to antioxidant activities of the acids.
4. Lowers high blood pressure
Low sodium content in the sauerkraut is related to lower risk of hypertension. Also, bioactive compounds in sauerkraut have potent antioxidative & anti-atherosclerotic effects that may help lower cholesterol levels and also lower high blood pressure. Moreover, vitamin K in the food item helps support heart health.
5. Strengthens digestive and gut system
The excess of prebiotic fibre and probiotics in sauerkraut might help improve the digestive health and prevent related condition like constipation and diarrhoea. It might help create healthy & balanced gut microbiome that might help support overall gastrointestinal health.
6. Boosts mental health
Fermented foods such as sauerkraut are mainly enriched with fermentation chemicals like bioactive peptides, flavonoids, and lactoferrin which are considered to improve intestinal microbiota. Good gut health is related to good mental health, consumption of phytochemical-rich foods could help improve mental health condition like anxiety and depression via gut-brain axis.