Purple Powerhouse: Discover the Surprising Health Benefits of Eggplant
Share:
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Eggplant is a nutritious and flavorful vegetable known for its glossy purple skin and spongy texture. Here is an overview of some key nutrition facts and health benefits of eggplant, as well as some surprising facts, storage and food safety tips, and ideas for how to prepare it.
Health benefits
Heart health
Eggplant is a good source of potassium. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure by balancing out the effects of sodium in the body. Adequate intake of potassium may help to reduce the risk of heart disease by maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Eggplant is also a good source of other nutrients that may support heart health, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from oxidative stress. Vitamin K helps to regulate the formation of blood clots. Fiber has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood sugar control.
Brain health
Eggplants contain phytonutrients such as anthocyanins, which are plant compounds that exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The anthocyanin called nasunin, found in the skin of eggplants, is particularly notable for its role in brain health.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to counteract their harmful effects through antioxidants. Prolonged oxidative stress can lead to damage in brain cells, which may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. The antioxidants in eggplants help neutralize free radicals, protecting brain cells from oxidative stress, and reducing the risk of these diseases.
Inflammation is another factor that can negatively impact cognitive function. Chronic inflammation in the brain has been associated with the development of neurodegenerative disorders. The anti-inflammatory properties of phytonutrients in eggplants can help reduce inflammation in the brain, supporting cognitive health and potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
Moreover, as I pointed out earlier, eggplants contain other essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin K that play a role in maintaining brain health. Potassium is necessary for nerve function, while vitamin K helps regulate calcium levels in the brain, which is important for synaptic function and overall brain health.
Blood sugar control
Eggplants have a low glycemic index (GI), which means that they do not cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels when consumed. Foods with a low GI release glucose into the bloodstream more slowly and steadily, helping maintain more stable blood sugar levels. This is particularly important for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition, as they need to carefully manage their blood sugar levels.
In addition to their low GI, eggplants are a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the intestine. This slower absorption helps prevent sudden increases in blood sugar levels after a meal. A diet high in fiber has been linked to improved glycemic control and a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Moreover, the polyphenols found in eggplants may also play a role in blood sugar control. Some studies have suggested that polyphenols can enhance insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the exact mechanisms by which polyphenols may affect blood sugar control.
Fun facts
- Eggplant is a fruit, not a vegetable! Technically, it is a berry that grows on a plant.
- A study published in 1993 in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that eggplant has by far the highest level of nicotine of any vegetable. But it’s such a small amount that there’s no need for concern. You would have to eat between 20 and 40 pounds of eggplant to consume the amount of nicotine you’d get smoking one cigarette.
- Eggplants originated in India, where it is known as “The King of Vegetables.” In many parts of the world, it is called aubergine from the ancient Indian language Sanskrit.
Storage and food safety
- Eggplant should be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to keep it fresh.
- Whole eggplants can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, while sliced or chopped eggplant should be used within a day or two.
- To prevent the risk of foodborne illness, be sure to handle eggplant (and all other foods) safely, including washing your hands before handling and properly storing leftovers.
How to prepare cabbage
There are many different ways to enjoy eggplant, both raw and cooked. Here are a few ideas for incorporating it into your diet:
- Raw: Eggplant can be enjoyed as a crunchy addition to salads or sandwiches. You can also thinly slice it and use it as a low-calorie wrap for fillings like chicken or tofu.
- Cooked: Eggplant is often cooked by roasting, grilling, or stir-frying. It is a common ingredient in dishes like eggplant parmesan, ratatouille, and baba ghanoush. Eggplant can also be grilled or baked and used as a base for a vegetarian sandwich or wrap.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, eggplant is a nutritious and flavorful vegetable that offers a range of potential health benefits.
Its high fiber and antioxidant content make it a helpful choice for digestion and brain health, while its rich supply of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K, make it a nutritious addition to any meal.
In addition to its many health benefits, eggplant is also relatively inexpensive and widely available, making it an accessible and convenient choice for many people.
Share:
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
