The word “bacteria” carries a negative connotation, especially in the world of food. When most people hear someone talking about eating food with bacteria, food poisoning often comes to mind.  But while it’s true that some food with bacteria can make you sick, it’s also true that other bacteria-rich foods are among the best things you can eat and can actually help keep your gut healthy.

Sauerkraut is one of the healthy, bacteria-filled foods that you should regularly eat.  If you didn’t realize it, sauerkraut comes from cabbage, which is one of the healthiest veggies there is.  The reason it is called sauerkraut is because it has been fermented, which is why it has a sour flavor.  Through the fermentation process the cabbage begins to create a bacteria called “lactobacillus,” which has a host of many health benefits.

Why So Good?

Lactobacillus works with the good bacteria in your gut to create a beautiful and healthy area. These bacteria will help you with digestion and nutrient absorption.  These live and active cultures (probiotics) found in sauerkraut are believed to help prevent and aid in treating many diseases. The cultures not only help with stomach, kidney and liver function, but studies have also shown that they can be an immune system booster and can help control inflammation.  Inflammation is very dangerous and is a precursor to many diseases and cancers.

Store-bought sauerkraut is traditionally made from white cabbage and is filled with chemicals that mimic the fermentation process without any of the benefits.  Some stores such as Whole Foods or local health stores will likely carry sauerkraut that has actually been fermented and made correctly.  This sauerkraut is full of fiber, is very low in calories and holds nutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iron and vitamin K.

How To Eat?

You can choose to go for the store-bought sauerkraut or you can choose to make your own.  Making your own will help you maximize your health benefits, while also allowing you to thrown in some red or purple cabbage for variety.  The fermentation process is very easy and just requires a culture starter and an airtight glass container.  If you are interested in making your own sauerkraut check out this link for step-by-step directions: http://www.wildfermentation.com/resources.php?page=sauerkraut

You always have the traditional option of a hot dog with sauerkraut, but if you’re looking to optimize the health benefits of sauerkraut, teaming it up with a hot dog is probably not the best thing to do.  Sauerkraut can really be thrown in with anything, depending on your taste buds.  Try mixing a bit into a salad and you really won’t even notice the difference.
Get some sauerkraut in you everyday because the health benefits are amazing and it will keep your gut at a good balance.