5 Health Benefits of Eating Cabbage

One widely available cruciferous vegetable that is often overlooked is cabbage.

Cabbage belongs to the Brassica genus of vegetables, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. It comes in different shapes and colors (red, purple, white and green) with either crinkled or smooth leaves.

Cabbage is good for your health due to its impressive nutritional profile.

* Weight Loss

One cup of shredded cabbage contains just 22 calories. So, being low in calories, it makes a great addition to any weight loss diet.Also, the fiber in cabbage provides bulk in your digestive system, which helps your stomach empty more slowly. Cabbage is also high in water content, which means it keeps you feeling full longer and prevents hunger pangs. Plus, it keeps the body hydrated.

* Boosts Heart Health

The anthocyanins in red cabbage help suppress inflammation in the body that may lead to cardiovascular disease. Also, the high polyphenol content in cabbage helps prevent platelet buildup and reduces blood pressure. This, in turn, helps lower your risk of cardiovascular disease.

* Promotes Brain Health

Cabbage is good for your brain. Being rich in iodine, cabbage improves brain functioning and keeps the nervous system functioning properly. In fact, a healthy amount of iodine plays a key role in preventing and treating neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

* Improves Digestion

Cabbage is full of gut-friendly insoluble fiber that helps keep the digestive system healthy by adding bulk to stools. Fiber also helps promote regular bowel movements.The water content in cabbage further helps prevent constipation and maintain a healthy digestive tract.

* Regulates Blood Sugar

The antioxidant and antihyperglycemic properties of cabbage offer a potential therapeutic source for managing diabetes. It helps lower blood sugar levels and aids insulin production.