Fermented foods: Your winter health boost with sauerkraut
Cabbage or cucumbers? There could be a debate about which fermented food is more popular. However, November and December in the kitchen definitely belong to cabbage. It wonderfully enhances the flavor of many dishes, is great for soups and salads, and even holds a strong place on the holiday table. It boosts immunity and aids in weight loss, but that's just the beginning of its benefits.
4:18 PM EST, November 24, 2024
We are familiar with fermented foods, but often we don't appreciate their value. They are created during the process of fermentation, which we commonly refer to as pickling. This is one of the oldest methods of preserving food, known not only in Central Europe but also in Asia. In recent years, many studies have shown the positive impact of fermented foods on health, and they have gained the status of superfoods. Among them is sauerkraut.
Important probiotics
Why are fermented foods so important in our diet? During the fermentation process, cultures of bacteria and yeasts form, which are probiotics. They help maintain a healthy gut flora, significantly impacting immunity. Fermented foods also stimulate digestion and can help alleviate digestive system issues.
Why should you eat sauerkraut?
Boosts immunity. The probiotics in cabbage support gut flora, strengthening immunity. They inhibit the growth of pathogens while promoting the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. As a result, we are less susceptible to infections. Additionally, cabbage is rich in vitamin C.
Has anti-cancer properties. Cabbage is rich not only in vitamin C but also in carotenoids and polyphenols, which counteract the effects of free radicals, playing an important role in cancer prevention. Dietitians believe that cruciferous vegetables should be part of our diet all year round, and they don't mean just sauerkraut.
Stimulates the digestive system. The beneficial bacteria found in sauerkraut accelerate intestinal transit, which helps prevent constipation. It also contains a significant amount of fiber, which positively affects intestinal function, speeding up digestion.
Aids in weight loss. Sauerkraut is low in calories and rich in fiber, making it ideal for a weight-reduction diet. Eating a portion of sauerkraut helps keep you feeling full longer while providing essential nutrients.
Supports vision. Sauerkraut contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which play an important role in vision and protect the eyes from harmful environmental factors such as UV radiation. They also reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases, including macular degeneration and cataracts.
Lowers blood sugar and cholesterol. The beneficial bacteria contribute to this effect. Additionally, vitamin C strengthens blood vessels and the heart, reducing the risk of hypertension. Pickled products also regulate the absorption of sugar in the blood, making them important in the prevention and treatment of diabetes.
