WiBo Health

Natural Fermented Sauerkraut

Zuurkool natuurlijk (gefermenteerd)
Vegetables

Sauerkraut (German-style fermented cabbage) is the undisputed king of natural probiotic foods, combining the crunch of cabbage with the remarkable benefits of lactic fermentation. Its glycemic index does not apply because it contains no starch, and it is a natural pharmacy for restoring the digestive system.

Glycemic index

—
Not applicable

Glycemic load

—
Not applicable

Calories

19
kcal per 100 g

Protein

0.9
g per 100 g

💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance

Consumption advice

Have two tablespoons a day alongside lunch or dinner as a 'healing side'; the millions of beneficial bacteria in it can make a real difference to your digestion.

Best preparation methods

Eat it raw, without cooking or heating, because heat kills the live lactobacillus bacteria that formed during natural fermentation.

Important Nutritional Note

Warning for people with high blood pressure: it contains sodium from the salting; people taking MAOI medicines should also be careful because it contains natural tyramine.

Nutrition facts

NutrientPer 100 gPer typical portion (100 g)
Calories19 kcal19 kcal
Protein0.9 g0.9 g
Carbohydrate4.3 g4.3 g
Available carbohydrate1.4 g1.4 g
Fat0.1 g0.1 g
Dietary fibre2.9 g2.9 g

The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.

Comparison & smarter alternatives

It has 19 kcal per 100 g, ranking 14 of 57 in Vegetables (lowest first).

Related foods from the same family:

Frequently asked questions

How does sauerkraut help with indigestion and bloating?

Through its lactic acid bacteria and live enzymes, which rebalance the gut microbiome and crowd out the harmful, gas-producing bacteria.

What is the nutritional value of a 100 g portion of sauerkraut?

Only about 20 kcal, 1 g of protein and 3 g of excellent fibre, plus a good share of vitamin C and vitamin K2.

Does fermented cabbage help improve blood sugar?

Yes. The lactic acid formed during fermentation slows stomach emptying and helps reduce the glucose spike from the accompanying meal.

📚 Scientific sources: International Tables of Glycemic Index (Atkinson et al., Am J Clin Nutr 2021) • Harvard Health Publishing. Methodology & details →

Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026

Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.