Here's Why Eggplant Is the New Superfood (2024)

FAQs

Here's Why Eggplant Is the New Superfood? ›

Why? The purple skin contains nasunin​, an antioxidant that helps the brain by protecting the lipids in brain cell membranes that let nutrients in, and waste out.

The Bottom Line. Eggplant is a high-fiber, low-calorie food that is rich in nutrients and comes with many potential health benefits. From reducing the risk of heart disease to helping with blood sugar control and weight loss, eggplants are a simple and delicious addition to any healthy diet.

Eggplant has antioxidants like vitamins A and C, which help protect your cells against damage. It's also high in natural plant chemicals called polyphenols, which may help cells do a better job of processing sugar if you have diabetes.

Eggplants are a good source of phytonutrients, that boost cognitive function and mental health. Eggplants increase the blood flow to the brain, boosting memory power and analytical thoughts. It is called brain food, as the potassium in eggplants acts as a vasodilator and a brain booster.

A big reason for eggplants' popularity has to do with its incredible versatility. There are seemingly endless ways to cook and prepare eggplants It can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, fried, baked, or even steamed.

Eggplants contain oxalates, though they have fewer than most fruits and vegetables. Oxalates can contribute to kidney stone formation in some people who are more prone to absorbing oxalates. Without treatment, kidney stones can lead to acute kidney injury or kidney death.

Wondering whether you can eat eggplant raw? It's OK in small quantities, but it's better if eggplant is cooked.

Prevent Signs of Aging

Eggplants deliver some vitamin C, which protects our skin and body from oxidative damage. Vitamin C also prevents other signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.

White eggplants contain over ninety percent water and are high in potassium and very low in both fats and protein. They also offer B vitamins, magnesium and copper. The amount of vitamin B in eggplant can help with anxiety and neurological function.

Why do Italians like eggplant so much? ›

That eggplant did eventually become a staple in the kitchens of central and northern Italy can be largely attributed to Sicilian Jews who were forced to leave or convert during the Spanish Inquisition.

While not a common allergen, eggplant can trigger allergic reactions in some people, including asthma symptoms. These reactions occur due to certain proteins in eggplant that can cause the immune system to overreact. However, it's important to note that this is relatively rare.

When looking at the exterior of the eggplant, check the stem and cap. Both should be green and fresh-looking. If they are starting to fade in color, that's an indicator that the vegetable may be spoiling. You'll also want to toss the eggplant if there is any mold on the stem or cap.

Eggplants have vitamin C to help keep our immune system strong and help our bodies heal quickly. Eggplants are also full of fiber to help with digestion, keeping us feeling full, and can aid in keeping our hearts healthy.

That's too bad, because the skin of purple eggplants contains its most valuable nutrient, a powerful antioxidant called nasunin, one of a type of flavonoid called anthocyanins present in many fruits and vegetables with red, blue and purple hues (berries, beets and red cabbage, to name a few).

Most people think eggplants are a vegetable, however, because the plant has seeds it's technically a fruit! Eggplants are related to tomatoes and peppers—and are in the nightshade family.

Grilling or baking eggplant slices without excessive oil helps retain the nutrients while reducing the fat content. Steaming or sautéing eggplant with minimal oil is another healthy option. Avoid deep-frying eggplant as it can absorb a lot of oil, resulting in a higher calorie content.