Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable that contains just 24 calories per 100 grams, making it an excellent addition to any healthy diet. But aside from its caloric content, cabbage has a wealth of health benefits that can make a big difference in your well-being.
In terms of nutrients, cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, manganese, and various antioxidants. These nutrients can help with everything from digestion to heart health, and more.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the many ways that cabbage can benefit your health, and explore some practical tips and strategies for incorporating this nutritious vegetable into your diet.
Lowers the risk of cancer
Cabbage contains antioxidants known as glucosinolates, which can help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as lung, prostate, and breast cancer. These antioxidants work by preventing the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body, as well as protecting healthy cells from damage. Additionally, the high fiber content in cabbage can help to keep your digestive system healthy, which can also reduce your risk of certain types of cancer. To get the most benefits from cabbage, try eating it raw or lightly cooked, as overcooking can destroy some of the valuable nutrients.
Boosts digestion
Cabbage is a great source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining healthy digestion. Eating fiber-rich foods like cabbage can help to prevent constipation, reduce inflammation in the gut, and promote regular bowel movements. In addition to fiber, cabbage also contains enzymes that can aid in digestion and help to break down certain foods more easily. To maximize the digestive benefits of cabbage, try eating it in a salad or as part of a stir-fry, or even pickling it for a tasty and gut-healthy snack.
Weight loss aid
If you're looking to lose weight, cabbage can be a helpful addition to your diet. Because it's low in calories and high in fiber, cabbage can help you feel full and satisfied for longer, without adding unnecessary calories to your diet. Additionally, cabbage contains compounds that can help to boost your metabolism and burn fat more effectively. To include cabbage in your Weight loss plan, try using it as a low-calorie substitute for other high-calorie ingredients, or incorporating it into nutritious meals like soups, stews, or stir-fries.
Improves heart health
Cabbage contains several nutrients that can benefit your heart health, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C and K. These nutrients work to reduce inflammation in the body, lower Blood pressure, and improve circulation. In addition, cabbage contains antioxidants that can help to prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to Heart disease. To promote heart health with cabbage, try incorporating it into meals like salads, soups, or wraps, or even drinking it in a juice or smoothie.
The antioxidants found in cabbage can also benefit your Skin health, by protecting your skin cells from damage and promoting the production of collagen, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, cabbage contains vitamin C, which is essential for the production of collagen and the healing of damaged skin cells. To improve your skin health with cabbage, try eating it raw in salads or slaws, or using it as a base for healthy homemade facial masks or tonics.
Fights inflammation
Chronic inflammation in the body has been linked to a wide range of health issues, from Heart disease and cancer to arthritis and diabetes. Cabbage contains several powerful anti-inflammatory compounds, including vitamin C and beta-carotene, that can help to reduce inflammation and protect the body from its harmful effects. Additionally, cabbage contains compounds that can help to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can further reduce inflammation in the body. To fight inflammation with cabbage, try incorporating it into meals like soups, stews, or casseroles, or using it as a base for a healthy juice or smoothie.
Reduces blood pressure
High Blood pressure can be a significant risk factor for Heart disease and other serious health issues. Luckily, cabbage contains several nutrients that can help to reduce blood pressure, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C. These nutrients work together to relax the blood vessels and promote healthy blood flow, which can help to lower your risk of heart disease. To reduce your blood pressure with cabbage, try incorporating it into meals like stir-fries, salads, or sandwiches, or even using it to make a healthy coleslaw or salad dressing.
Immunity booster
Cabbage is packed with immune-boosting nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. These nutrients work to support the immune system by protecting the body from harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. In addition, cabbage contains compounds that can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can further support a healthy immune system. To boost your immunity with cabbage, try incorporating it into meals like soups, stews, or stir-fries, or even drinking it in a healthy juice or smoothie.
Regulates blood sugar
For people with diabetes or other blood sugar issues, cabbage can be a helpful addition to your diet. Because it's low in calories and high in fiber, cabbage can help to regulate your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of complications. Additionally, cabbage contains compounds that can help to improve insulin sensitivity, which can further support healthy blood sugar levels. To regulate your blood sugar with cabbage, try incorporating it into meals like salads, stir-fries, or slaws, or even using it as a base for a healthy vegetable juice or smoothie.
Good source of nutrients
Cabbage is a fantastic source of a wide range of essential nutrients, including vitamins C and K, fiber, manganese, and antioxidants. These nutrients work together to support everything from digestion to heart health, and more. In addition, cabbage is low in calories and versatile, making it an excellent addition to any healthy diet. To get the most nutritional benefits from cabbage, try incorporating it into meals like soups, stews, stir-fries, or salads, or using it as a base for a healthy juice or smoothie.
Cabbage is one of the most underappreciated vegetables around. It's low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients that can benefit your health in countless ways. Plus, it's versatile and delicious, making it an easy addition to any healthy meal.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Cabbage
What are the health benefits of eating cabbage?
Cabbage is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a weight-loss diet. It is also high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, which can offer various health benefits such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation.
How should I prepare cabbage?
Cabbage can be enjoyed cooked or raw. Popular cooking methods include roasting, sautéing, boiling, steaming or stir-frying. When eating it raw, it can be thinly sliced or shredded and used in salads, coleslaw or as a sandwich topping.
What are some different types of cabbage?
There are many types of cabbage including green cabbage, red cabbage, savoy cabbage, Napa cabbage, and bok choy. Each type has a distinct flavor and texture, and can be used in various dishes.
How can cabbage be stored?
Cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To prolong its shelf life, it should be kept in a plastic bag and stored in the crisper drawer. Once it is cut, it should be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can cabbage be frozen?
Yes, cabbage can be frozen. It is best to blanch it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then submerge it in ice water to stop the cooking process. Once it is dry, it can be stored in an airtight container or plastic bag and frozen for up to 8 months.