Cabbage is a Dieter's Friend
Cabbage is a green leafy vegetable which is popular around the globe for its health-giving properties. It is eaten by many dieters because it does not promote weight gain. It's filling characteristics also helps to curb food craving which is the primary factor of overeating.
Cabbage is loaded with protein, calcium, thiamin, phosphorous, copper and fiber. It is also rich in vitamins A, C, B6, magnesium, manganese, potassium and folate. Another factor that makes cabbage a healthy food is its being low in cholesterol and saturated fat.
Some positive health benefits of cabbage are as given below:
Prevent cancer growth
Cabbage contains several cancer fighting properties, including lupeol, sinigrin, diindolylmethane (DIM), indole-3-carbinol (I3C), and sulforaphane, which may help trigger enzyme defenses and inhibit tumor growth. The I3C and sulforaphane compounds in cabbage have both been shown increase the anti-cancer effects of the chemotherapy drug Taxol. One study of Chinese women found that consumption of cruciferous vegetables (such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts) was associated with a significant reduced breast cancer risk.
Treat peptic ulcers
Cabbage is one of the best natural remedies for stomach ulcers (called peptic ulcers). A study at the Stanford University School of Medicine found that fresh cabbage juice is very effective in treating peptic ulcers. The anti-ulcer properties of cabbage are due to the high glutamine content in it.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Cabbage is good source of the amino acid glutamine and is believed to help those who are suffering from any type of inflammation.
Boosts immune system
Due to its high amount of Vitamin C, cabbage helps strengthen the Immune System and help the body fight against free radicals.
Prevent cataract risk
Cabbage is also high in beta-carotene which helps protect against age-related macular degeneration and prevent cataracts.
Weight loss diet
Cabbage is a great diet choice for those who are looking for lose weight. One cup of cooked cabbage contains just only 33 calories. That’s why people who are on the cabbage soup diet can eat endless amounts of the soup without gaining weight, while still staying healthy.
Reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease
Recent research has shown that eating red cabbage may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Red cabbage contains vitamin K and anthocyanin, an antioxidant to help reduces plaque on the brain, thus can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Relieve constipation
The high fiber content in cabbage helps stimulate the digestive system, and thus relieving constipation.
Skin care
The antioxidants in cabbage help protect the skin from free radical damage known to cause signs of aging.
Relieve muscle soreness
Cabbage contains lactic acid which known to help relieve muscles soreness.
To obtain the most health benefits of cabbage, avoid overcooking cabbage since it decreases its nutritional value especially vitamin C and the remaining nutrients will become more difficult to be digested. Cabbage can be eaten in various ways such as boiled, steamed, sauted, stir-fried or even roasted. But cabbage is most nutritious when eaten raw. Add sliced or grated raw leaves in vegetable salad for more taste.
Sources:
energize.com
healthonlinezine.info
Other links:
What Are the Health Benefits of Broccoli?
What are Health Benefits of Eating Beets?
The Mysterious Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Avocados, a super-nutritious, wonderful food
The King of Vegetables
