When people think of superfoods, they may think of kale, blueberries or avocados. However, there is another superfood that people may not immediately think of but that is found on many a grocery store shelf; the eggplant. This superfood, which is also a vegetable, has many positive health benefits when incorporated in one's diet.
The eggplant has many powerful antioxidants such as nasunin, which is found in the eggplant's purple skin and is extremely healthy for the human body.
Nasunin is an antioxidant that decreases the production of harmful free radicals in the body, protecting the cells from oxidative damage and decreasing the risks of heart disease and cancer. The eggplant also contains anthocyanins, which are antioxidant compounds that can be found in other superfoods such as blueberries. Anthocyanins are also anti-inflammatory agents and very healthy for the heart.
The fiber contained in eggplants are extremely good for the digestion and they help create a sense of fullness after eating. They are also very important in diabetic diets, as they help control blood sugar levels by decreasing the rate at which the body absorbs sugar.
Eggplants also contain many different polyphenols, which are extremely healthy for the human body. They not only help lower one's risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but they also decrease blood pressure and cholesterol, lowering an individual's risks of heart disease and providing many other health benefits.
With only around 20 calories in one cup of eggplant, individuals can eat generous helpings of this superfood without having to worry about gaining weight. This makes the eggplant a perfect food for people who want to go on a diet or simply need to eat more vegetables.
Whether one wants to grill it, bake it or simply roast it, the eggplant can be prepared in many different ways and is a very flexible ingredient. The slightly sweet, vegetable can be the main ingredient in vegetarian dishes or be used to spice up a meat dish. For individuals who are looking to eat more vegetables and less meat, the eggplant can be an extremely good alternative to meat in many dishes.
The baba ganoush, a very creamy eggplant dip, can also be made with the eggplant and helps to add flavor and nutrition to any snack.
Adding eggplant to one's diet may not only help them to make healthier food choices, but may also help them to realize the immense health benefits that eggplant provides. So maybe next time someone is in the produce section of the grocery store, they will pick up some eggplant and try out this superfood.