6 surprising health benefits of eggplant

Eggplant is used in many different dishes around the world. There are many varieties of eggplant in different sizes and colors. And while eggplants with dark purple skin are the most common, they can be red, green, or even black.

Here are six health benefits of eggplant.

Contains many nutrients

Eggplant is a highly nutritious food, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber in low calories.

82 grams of raw eggplant contains 20 calories, 5 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of fiber, and 1 gram of protein. Additionally, it provides manganese, folate, potassium, vitamins K and C, and small amounts of other nutrients (such as niacin, magnesium, and copper).

Rich in antioxidants

According tographlineBesides containing a variety of vitamins and minerals, eggplant also boasts a large amount of antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that help protect the body from damage caused by harmful substances called free radicals.

Studies have shown that antioxidants can help prevent many chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer. Eggplants are particularly rich in anthocyanins, a type of pigment with antioxidant properties that gives them their vibrant color.

Among its components, a type of anthocyanin in eggplant called nasunin is particularly beneficial. Numerous in-tube studies have confirmed its effectiveness in protecting cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals.

Reduce the risk of heart disease.

Thanks to its antioxidant content, some studies suggest that eggplant may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

In one study, rabbits with high cholesterol levels were given 10ml of eggplant juice daily for two weeks. At the end of the study, they had lower levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, two blood markers that can lead to an increased risk of heart disease when elevated.

Other studies have shown that eggplant may have cardioprotective effects. In one study, animals were fed raw or roasted eggplant for 30 days. Both improved heart function and reduced the severity of heart attacks.

Promoting blood sugar control

Adding eggplant to your diet may help control blood sugar levels. This is mainly because eggplant is high in fiber.

Fiber can lower blood sugar levels by slowing the rate at which sugar is digested and absorbed by the body. This slower absorption helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevents sudden spikes and drops.

Other studies suggest that polyphenols, naturally occurring plant compounds found in foods like eggplant, may reduce sugar absorption and increase insulin secretion, both of which can help lower blood sugar.

Eggplant fits into current dietary recommendations for managing diabetes, which include a diet high in fiber, whole grains, and vegetables.

Helps with weight loss

Eggplants are high in fiber and low in calories, making them a great addition to any weight-loss diet. Fiber moves slowly through the digestive tract and can promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction, thereby reducing calorie intake.

It has anti-cancer benefits.

Eggplant contains several substances that may fight cancer cells.

For example, solasodine rhamnosyl glycosides (SRG) are a type of compound found in some plants of the Solanaceae family, including eggplant. Several animal studies have shown that SRGs may induce cancer cell death and may also help reduce the recurrence of some types of cancer.

Although research on this topic is limited, SRG has been shown to be particularly effective against skin cancer when applied directly to the skin.

Furthermore, several studies have found that eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, such as eggplant, may protect against certain types of cancer. One review examining approximately 200 studies found that fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with protection against pancreatic, stomach, colorectal, bladder, cervical, and breast cancers.