Do you know the benefits of eggplant? Brinjals, or eggplants, are more than just a flavourful vegetable. Eggplant offers several health benefits too, thanks to its rich nutritional profile and unique combination of compounds. From antioxidants that shield cells from damage to its contribution to heart health and blood sugar regulation, this vegetable has captured the attention of health-conscious individuals. Beyond its delicious taste, eggplant’s potential to enhance overall well-being makes it a valuable inclusion in a balanced diet. Let’s explore the myriad advantages that this vegetable brings to the table.
List of health benefits of eggplant
Below are some of the benefits of eggplant:
- Rich in antioxidants: Eggplant is a potent source of antioxidants, including vitamins A and C. These antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting yourself from damage caused by harmful free radicals. By neutralising these radicals, eggplants support cellular health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Polyphenol powerhouse: This humble vegetable is high in polyphenols, natural plant compounds linked to various health benefits. Polyphenols may aid in improving sugar metabolism, making them potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes. Additionally, they could promote heart health by reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function.
- Nutritional value: The nutritional value of brinjal lies in its low-calorie content coupled with its abundant essential nutrients. It’s a good source of dietary fibre, supports digestive health, and helps with weight management. This vegetable also provides important minerals such as potassium, which is vital for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
- Heart health support: The fibre and antioxidants present in eggplants contribute to heart health. Fibre lowers cholesterol levels; as these both bind together in the digestive tract and prevents cholesterol absorption into the bloodstream. Antioxidants in eggplants protect blood vessels and reduce the risk of heart-related complications.
- Brain boosting potential: Anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant found in eggplants, have been linked to cognitive benefits. These compounds help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and reduce cognitive decline as you age.
- Weight management: Eggplant can be a valuable addition to your weight management plan due to its low-calorie and high-fibre content. The fibre helps you feel fuller for long, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
- Blood sugar regulation: The polyphenols in eggplants, particularly nasunin, have the potential to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. This makes eggplant a beneficial vegetable for individuals dealing with diabetes.
- Digestive health: The dietary fibre in eggplant aids in promoting healthy digestion. It helps with regular bowel movements, thereby helping to prevent constipation. Additionally, fibre contributes to a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for overall digestive well-being.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Eggplant contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as nasunin. This helps reduce the risk of many chronic diseases.
- Contributes to healthy skin: The antioxidants in eggplants protect skin from oxidative stress. Including eggplant in your diet may help improve your complexion and also reduce signs of ageing.
- Bone health support: Eggplant contains small amounts of important minerals such as manganese, which play a role in bone health. Manganese aids the formation and maintenance of strong bones and connective tissues.
- Cancer-fighting potential: Eggplants contain compounds such as chlorogenic acid and nasunin that exhibit potential anti-cancer properties. These compounds help neutralise harmful free radicals, reducing the risk of cellular damage and potentially lowering the risk of certain types of cancers.
- Vision protection: The rich content of antioxidants, including vitamins A and C in eggplant, is beneficial for eye health. These antioxidants help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
- Kidney health: Eggplant is a natural diuretic due to its high water content and potassium levels. Therefore, it can aid in healthy kidney function by promoting regular urination to flush out toxins.
- Blood pressure regulation: The presence of potassium in eggplant helps regulate blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. Maintaining a proper balance between these minerals is essential for cardiovascular health.