When we crave a particular food it is usually our body’s way of telling us that it needs something. Cravings for sauerkraut are often a sign that your body is lacking minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. The good news is that you can easily get the nutrients you need by adding sauerkraut to your diet.
Besides being a source of these important minerals, sauerkraut is also high in probiotics and vitamin C. These are both great for your digestive tract and can help prevent constipation, gas and that bloated feeling you may be experiencing during pregnancy. The fermenting process creates live bacteria or good bacteria that can help improve digestion, boost your immune system and reduce inflammation in the gut.
However, if you are prone to allergies or already taking anti-inflammatory medications, you should avoid eating sauerkraut. This is because it contains tyramine and glucosinolates which can increase histamine levels in the bloodstream which can trigger an allergic reaction in some people.
To make sauerkraut at home, simply shred the cabbage finely and place it in a large bowl. Add salt and begin massaging the mixture with clean hands. Keep massaging until the cabbage becomes limp and there is liquid gathering at the bottom of the bowl. Pack the mixture into sterilized jars and leave on the counter out of sunlight for 1-14 days (or longer) to let it naturally ferment. Sauerkraut is delicious in so many recipes or just eaten straight from the jar!