Eggplant Health Benefits

http://www.karenrothnutrition.com We all know that fruits and vegetables are good for us, but most of us don’t get a variety of different fruits and vegetables. So that’s why today’s topic is on Eggplant. Because most people are intimidated by this vegetable, how to pick a ripe one, and what to do with it once they get it home. But first I want to share with you the health benefits of this vegetable.

Eggplants contain a potent antioxidant that protects cell membranes from damage. Studies have shown that it protects the lipids or fat of our brain cell membranes which protects us from free radicals that can alter how our cells communicate with messenger molecules. Its that same phytonutrient that gives eggplant its color. Eggplant may help you sleep better since it contains tryptophan.

Eggplant contains many heart healthy nutrients such as fiber, folate, Vitamins B 3 & 6 along with magnesium and potassium. Other healthy phytochemicals in eggplant were studied in their effect in lowering cholesterol. Animal studies showed that when eggplant juice was given, blood cholesterol was lowered, and blood flow improved due to the walls of the blood vessels relaxing.

And as an added bonus, just 1 cup of cooked eggplant is only 28 calories.

So when choosing an eggplant you want to look for ones that are firm and feel heavy for their size. You can tell if its ripe by gently pressing against it and if it bounces back its ripe. Youll know its not ripe if the skin doesnt bounce back into place. Also, the skin should be smooth and shiny. Try to purchase it organic so you can eat the skin. Otherwise peel it because conventionally grown will be coated with wax and that wax can trap in pesticides.

Eggplant tends to have a bitter taste, but if properly prepared that can be avoided. Simply cut of the ends, then cut into ½ inch slices. Sprinkle with sea salt, cover and let sit for 1 hour. This pulls out the water and reduces bitterness.

You can add chopped eggplant to your stir frys. Try an Eggplant sandwich. Simply sauté sliced eggplant until brown on both sides, top with tomato, cheese, onion and enjoy.

The next time youre in a Greek restaurant, try the Moussaka. Its a great alternative to lasagna. The eggplant replaces the noodles. Better yet, make this dish yourself. My favorite is from Sally Fallons Book Nourishing Traditions.

There are some people that should avoid eggplant and that would be people that are prone to kidney stones as eggplant contains a good quantity of oxalates. And if you suffer from arthritis, know that eggplant is part of the night shade family and some people notice improvement in their symptoms when they avoid the night shade vegetables.

I hope this encourages you to add a new vegetable to your diet.

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