Cabbage: The Health Power house

• Did you know that cabbage could prevent type 2 diabetes? Well, yes! A recent study of over 57,000 adults in Denmark confirms it.

• Researchers have identified nearly 20 different flavonoids and 15 different phenols in cabbage, all of which have demonstrated antioxidant activity. This impressive list is the key reason why an increasing number of studies link cabbage intake to decreased risk of several cardiovascular diseases.

• Cabbage is also an excellent source of sinigrin. Sinigrin is one of cabbage's sulfur-containing glucosinolatesthat has received special attention in cancer prevention research.  

Want to boost your immune system, improve your digestive health and also get great skin & hair? Don’t forget to add this highly nutritious vegetable to your daily diet.  

Cabbage deserves a limelight and a generous space in your plate! Despite being one of the most consumed vegetables in our country, not everyone knows that cabbage is also one of the most nutritious vegetables out there. Loaded with several essential vitamins and minerals, the 'power food' is good for the digestive system, skin, hair, and immune system. The healing properties of cabbage also have a mention in Ayurveda. 

Cabbage Is A Superhero! 

Cabbage contains four major antioxidants - choline, beta-carotene, lutein and quercetin.  

• Choline can improve memory and fight inflammation. 

• Beta-carotene protects human DNA from the ill effects of smoking.

• Lutein can prevent age-related macular degeneration.

• Quercetin fights harmful bacteria and combats disease.

Cabbage is also rich in vitamins C and K, and B vitamins. 

Cabbage - A Powerhouse of Benefits 

Promotes Heart Health

Red cabbage is rich in anthocyanins, the compound responsible for its characteristic red colour. Studies link anthocyanins to a reduced risk of heart disease. Studies suggest that a high intake of anthocyanins may also reduce the risk of myocardial infarction in young and middle-aged women. These anthocyanins may also lower arterial stiffness, potentially reducing blood pressure.  

Enhances Digestive Health 

Fermented food prepared from cabbage can promote digestive health. Once fermented, cabbage becomes rich in probiotics and promotes digestive health in ways similar to dairy products. It also prevents constipation and  promotes colorectal health. Cabbage is also rich in both insoluble and soluble fibers - the former adds bulk to stools and promotes regularity and the latter promotes gut-friendly bacteria. 

Fights Inflammation 

Cruciferous veggies, like cabbage, fight chronic inflammation. Studies indicate that good intake of cruciferous vegetables helps avoid inflammation. This can be attributed to an antioxidant called sulforaphane present in cruciferous vegetables. Sulforaphane is also known to slow down cartilage damage in joints. 

Protects from Cancer 

Research is ongoing on the anticancer effects of sulforaphane. At the molecular level, this antioxidant has shown promising results. Cabbage also contains another set of compounds called isothiocyanates. These may disarm carcinogens by getting them out of their toxic states and flushing them out of the body. Cabbage contains another compound called brassinin, which also exhibits chemopreventive activity. In general, cabbage could inhibit the development of cancers of the bladder, breast, colon, liver, stomach and lung. 

Aids Diabetes Treatment 

Red cabbage has antihyperglycemic properties, which can cut the risk of diabetic nephropathy. In a study, oral administration of cabbage extracts lowered blood sugar levels in fasting and relieved diabetic symptoms in subjects. The anthocyanins in cabbage could also have a role in treating (and even preventing) diabetes. 

Promotes Vision Health 

The lutein in cabbage contributes to vision health. Lutein (along with another antioxidant called zeaxanthin) protects the retina and the lens against the ultraviolet light. Cabbage also contains vitamin C, another nutrient that aids vision.  

Strengthens Immunity 

The vitamin C in cabbage could strengthen immunity. The antioxidants stimulate the white blood cells that help form the first line of defense. Cabbage consumption also promotes the maturation of T-cells, which are an important component of the body’s immune system. 

Helps with Weight Loss 

Fruits and vegetables containing fiber (including cabbage) can help with weight loss.  

Improves Skin Health 

Cabbage is rich in vitamin C. This nutrient boosts the production of collagen, a structural protein that helps with skin formation and wound healing. 

Strengthens Hair 

Cabbage contains quercetin. This antioxidant shows some promise in the treatment of alopecia areata (autoimmune condition involving sudden hair loss).