Gastrointestinal problems are common but uncomfortable and sometimes even incapacitating. Diarrhea, or frequent loose stools, is an especially common digestive tract illness -- in fact, MayoClinic.com states that everyone experiences it at one time or another. Caused by a disruption of the bacterial balance in your intestinal tract, diarrhea can often be prevented and treated naturally with fermented foods such as sauerkraut, says the University of New Hampshire.
Probiotics
Sauerkraut is helpful for diarrhea because it contains healthy bacteria. And while it may seem odd to consume bacteria to cure an illness, some bacterial microorganisms -- known as probiotics -- are essential to a healthy immune system. In a healthy digestive tract, trillions of these bacteria exist to fight off the other types of bacteria that cause illness, such as diarrhea. If you don't have enough probiotic bacteria in your intestines, you may become ill.
Probiotics Supplementation
Probiotics supplementation is generally considered an effective natural treatment for diarrhea, says Columbia University Health Services. One natural way to ingest more probiotics is to consume more probiotic foods. Food sources of probiotics -- typically the live bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus -- include not just sauerkraut but other fermented foods as well, such as yogurt, buttermilk, sour cream, kefir, miso, tempeh and kimchi. Some people also take probiotics in capsule, liquid or powder supplement form.
Dosage
Whether you treat or prevent diarrhea by eating sauerkraut, other probiotic foods or supplements, ask your doctor for information regarding the appropriate dosage for your situation. The University of Maryland Medical Center that 1 to 2 billion colony-forming units, or CFUs, per day is a typical dose for treating or preventing diarrhea, but some providers recommend far more. In addition, pediatric doses will vary from typical adult doses.
Safety
Probiotics are generally considered safe, especially in natural food form such as in sauerkraut. However, some people may experience negative side effects from probiotic foods, such as gas or bloating. Certain individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems or with artificial heart valves, may be advised to avoid probiotic foods due to potential complications. Consult your doctor for medical approval before treating diarrhea with sauerkraut or any other source of probiotics.
