Here’s a way to add more color and health benefits to your diet – eggplants. Eggplant, also known as brinjal, aubergine, guinea squash, melongene, and garden egg is a tasty fruit that aids in weight loss, managing diabetes, and reducing stress.
The purple fruit, popularly referred to as a vegetable, originates from the Indian subcontinent and is now a delicacy in many cuisines. Enjoyed in many parts of the world, including Italy, Egypt, and the U.S., the eggplant has slowly made its way into the mainstream diet, not only because of its benefits but also due to its delicious flavor.
Frequently regarded by Indians as the “king of vegetables,” the eggplant is a member of the nightshade vegetable and Solanaceae plant family. Eggplant is also rich in antioxidants and phenolic compounds, which can be noted from its beautiful purple color.
Health Benefits of Eggplant
Unlike most fruits and veggies out there, eggplant gives us most of its health benefits by being cooked as opposed to being consumed raw.
1 cup of cooked eggplant contains:
- 35 calories
- 2.5 grams of fiber
- 88.77 grams of water
- 0.82 grams of protein
- 0.23 grams of fat
- Other vital minerals and vitamins
1. Promotes Weight Loss
Eggplants are low in calories and contain fewer amounts of fat and cholesterol, hence they are the ideal food to have in your meals if you are trying to lose some weight.
The fiber present in eggplant will also keep you feeling full for longer periods of time and, therefore, inhibit your cravings for snacks during the day.
2. Fights Cancer
Eggplants contain 13 types of phenolic acids that have the ability to fight cancer. The nasunin present in eggplant is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radical damage and also fights inflammation and oxidative stress.
Antioxidants are necessary for the body to fight free radicals that are released during oxidation. An excess of free radicals in the body can cause harmful mutations in the cells that could lead to cancer.
Eggplants also contain anti-microbial and anti-viral properties that work to protect our inflammation levels and reduce the risk of developing other diseases.
3. Improves Bone Health
If you are at risk of developing osteoporosis or other bone problems, eggplant is a must to include in your diet. The phenolic compounds present in eggplants not only give the fruit its unique color, but they also protect the bones.
Eggplants are also high in iron, potassium, and calcium, which are known to support bone health.
4. Prevents Anemia
The body, specifically the blood in our bodies, needs a healthy amount of iron to fuel the healthy flow of red blood cells. An iron deficiency leads to a number of health problems including anemia that causes depression, weakness, fatigue, and other cognitive issues.
Eggplants also contain another essential mineral needed by the blood – copper. With a regular dose of eggplant, you can maintain healthy blood flow, reduce feelings of stress, and give your energy levels a needed boost.
5. Aids Digestion
The high amount of water in eggplants makes it low in calories and aids the digestive process in the gut. Eggplant is also a good source of fiber and other nutrients that work together to release harmful waste and toxins from the body.
Water is one of the most important liquids you can put in your body. By consuming foods with high water content, you enable a healthy flow of waste and leave the body feeling healthy and hydrated.
6. Lowers Cholesterol
Your heart will benefit from cooked eggplant in your dinner. Research shows that eggplants lower cholesterol levels and help you achieve more balanced levels due to its ability to fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
Eggplants contain anti-LDL properties that work to reduce the level of “bad” cholesterol in the body. Our bodies still need a certain amount of cholesterol for other functions, however, the build-up of bad cholesterol can lead to a number of health problems as you age.
Lower cholesterol levels can reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other heart problems. Additionally, the bioflavonoids present in eggplants also promote lower blood pressure and boost a healthier cardiovascular system.
The content of this Website is for is for informational purposes only, is general in nature and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and does not constitute professional advice. The information on this Website should not be considered as complete and does not cover all diseases, ailments, physical conditions, or their treatment. You should consult with your physician before beginning any exercise, weight loss, or health care program and/or any of the beauty treatments.
References:
(n.d.). Retrieved April 10, 2018, from https://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/foods/show/2963
LD, M. W. (2017, October 20). Eggplant: Health benefits and nutritional information. Retrieved April 10, 2018, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279359.php
Babcock, J. (2017, June 21). Eggplant Nutrition, Benefits & Recipes. Retrieved April 10, 2018, from https://draxe.com/eggplant-nutrition/
10 Amazing Benefits of Eggplant. (2018, February 14). Retrieved April 10, 2018, from https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/vegetable/health-benefits-of-eggplant.html
