Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage that can be used as a condiment or sandwich topping, or even enjoyed on its own as a side dish. Many people find it tasty, but beyond being delicious, sauerkraut also comes with a lot of health benefits. It is a good source of healthy, probiotic bacteria along with B vitamins, various minerals, and dietary fiber. Many people can benefit from enjoying sauerkraut more often, but there are a few groups of people who can particularly benefit from this fermented food.

People with digestive issues.

Do you deal with frequent bouts of diarrhea or constipation? Perhaps you have even been diagnosed with a condition like IBS. These digestive issues are sometimes caused and other times made worse by a lack of healthy bacteria in the gut. Eating sauerkraut more often can help recolonize your intestines. You probably won't get instant relief, but as you keep enjoying sauerkraut, day after day, you may realize that your digestive tract becomes less and less irritable. You may have an easier time tolerating rich foods and become less reliant on medications like antacids.

People who become ill frequently.

Do you feel like you have a cold more often than not? Maybe whenever there is any sort of flu bug in town, you can count on contracting it. These are signs that your immune system is not functioning as well as it should. Eating more sauerkraut can help with this in a few ways. Some of the healthy bacteria in the sauerkraut can directly help fight off pathogenic bacteria and viruses, meaning that your body won't have to do as much work. The B vitamins and minerals in the sauerkraut can also help you build a healthier, more functional immune system over time.

People who have an autoimmune disorder.

There's a long list of autoimmune disorders in which your body's immune system begins attacking its own tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjogren's syndrome are some common examples. If you've been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, you may benefit from eating more sauerkraut. Over time, it may boost the health of your immune system, making it less reactive. You should not stop taking any medications for your autoimmune condition without first checking in with your doctor, however.

Sauerkraut is a powerhouse of nutrition and a great choice for your overall health. If you fall into any of the categories above, consider eating more of this fermented food.

To learn more about the health benefits of sauerkraut, contact a company like Fermentools.