Health Benefits of Cabbage

There are some very convincing statistics showing that eating cabbage brings substantial health benefits in return. I've become accustomed to adding a head of cabbage or two to my grocery cart--a must ingredient in our nightly salad. I realized that by chopping one extra vegetable was well worth my effort. 

This realization came after reading several studies over the years that showed the amazing impact of cabbage in our diet. Especially red cabbage, as it's one of the most nutritious vegetables around. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that eating cabbage once a week can reduce the risk of colon cancer by 60 percent! In its raw form, especially as a juice, cabbage contains ascorbigen—sometimes referred to as “vitamin U,” for its ability to heal and protect against stomach ulcers.

As a member of the cruciferous family of vegetables, the uniqueness of cabbage in cancer prevention is due to the three different types of nutrient richness found: antioxidant richness, anti-inflammatory richness, and in glucosinolates. What are glucosinolates? They are sulphur containing glycosides that accumulate in tissues of cruciferous crops. This converts into ally-isothiocyanates (AITC) which have exceptional cancer preventive properties for bladder, colon and prostate cancer.

 

The medicinal qualities of cabbage are significant. Eating cabbage stimulates the immune system, kills bacteria and viruses, inhibits the growth of cancerous cells, protects against tumors, helps control hormone levels and improves blood flow. Eat enough and it will speed up the metabolism of estrogen and thereby reduce the risk of breast cancer and inhibit the growth of polyps in the colon. 

 

Abundance of Vitamin C: You may be surprised to know that cabbage packs more vitamin C than oranges! 

  • One of the best anti-oxidants. 
  • Reduces free radicals in your body. 
  • Helps repairing the wear and tears in the body.  
  • Helpful in treating ulcers, certain cancers, depressions, and for strengthening immune system and fighting against cough and cold, 
  • Aids in healing wounds and damaged tissues, proper functioning of nervous system. 

Detoxifier:  Cabbage is a good detoxifier too. It purifies blood and removes toxins (primarily free radicals and uric acid). The presence of vitamin C and sulphur contribute to the detoxifying effects of cabbage.
Rich in Fiber and Iodine: Cabbage is very rich in fiber which helps the body retain water and move waste along efficiently. Cabbage, also rich in iodine, aids in proper functioning of the brain and the nervous system, apart from keeping the endocrinal glands in proper condition.
Do you have any favorite dishes that include cabbage?