When it comes to cabbage, nutrition experts agree that it is one of the more beneficial plants people can regularly consume. Those who wish to obtain optimal health are wise to include this leafy vegetable as a dietary staple, but should also know that its over consumption can also lead to side effects. Understanding the nutritional facts associated with it, however, helps people design a diet that gives them all of the benefits of this cruciferous vegetable without the risks.
While there are many varieties of this vegetable and many ways in which it can be prepared, all types essentially fall under three categories:
- Red
- Green
- Savoy
Other varieties include Napa or Chinese cabbage, and bok choy, which contains the highest amounts of vitamin A.
Cabbage Nutrition and Nutritional Benefits
In studying cabbage nutritional facts researchers have found important phytochemicals known as indoles, which burn estrogen. Indoles also prevent the harmful cellular mutations that cause colon cancer. A few of the phytochemicals discovered in this vegetable also produce enzymes that fight cancer.
Cabbage juice is particularly rich in vitamin U, which is largely realized as a benefit in natural cures and home remedies. Other minerals and vitamins found in this vegetable include:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B1
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin B3
- Vitamin C
- Iron
- Potassium
- Calcium
As a source of dietary fiber, all types of cabbage are good, but red varieties tend to have a higher fibrous content than green ones. Red varieties are also higher in iron, calcium and potassium.
Cabbage Health Benefits
As a food source and for medicinal use, this vegetable has been used throughout history in a variety of ways. Studied at the University of Utah School of Medicine, researchers found that men who regularly consumed cruciferous vegetables had a lower risk of cancer than those who didn’t. Often used in natural cures and home remedies, studies also reveal that it is helpful in preventing the growth of certain cancers including the following:
- Stomach cancer
- Colon cancer
- Breast cancer
The benefits of cabbage nutrition also make it useful in the prevention and natural treatment of health conditions such as:
- Peptic ulcers
- Breast cancer
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Alzheimer’s Disease
Cruciferous vegetables are also known to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Precaution
This food is not commonly associated with allergies and does not contain an inordinate amount of purines or oxalates, which makes it a safe food for most people to eat. However, in excessive amounts, cabbage can contribute to the development of goiter or thyroid dysfunctions.
The benefits of cabbage nutrition, along with the many ways in which it can be prepared, have caused this leafy vegetable to be a worldwide dietary staple. As an inexpensive, very healthy food choice, it is easy to incorporate into all diets that are designed to support good overall health. For the most potent benefits, cabbage that is organically grown is best. When preparing cabbage, lightly steaming it is considered to be the most effective way of retaining its phytonutrients.
