Brinjals/ Aubergines/ Eggplants
Did you know that brinjals contain nicotine? Thankfully they only have minute amounts. You'd have to eat 10 brinjals to get in the same quantity of nicotine that you would inhale after spending 3 hours in an environment with minimal smoke.
These unique vegetables with a subtle taste and spongy texture belong to the nightshade family along with bell peppers and tomatoes. They are a great source of dietary fibre as well as Vitamin B1, B3, B6, folate, copper and manganese.
Fibre is a necessary component of a healthy diet and specifically helps in the regulation of blood pressure, blood glucose levels and heart health.
Brinjals contain antioxidants called flavonoids. The flavonoid in brinjals is called anthocyanins. They have multiple health benefits including:
lowering your risk for heart disease
lowering blood pressure
lowering cancer risk
Along with chlorogenic acid, this flavonoid blocks the enzymes that help cancer spread and protects against tumour growth.
promotes blood flow to the brain which in turn helps to limit cell damage and may assist in protection from age related neurodegeneration and improves memory and mental ability
Their unique flavour and texture causes them to be used far too seldom. Incorporating them in your diet on a regular basis can help support your health in multiple ways. We'll be looking at some ideas later this week - watch this space!
Source:
Domino, E.F. 1993. The Nicotine Content of Common Vegetables. New England Journal of Medicine: 1993; 329:437.
George Mateljan Foundation. 2017. Eggplant. www.whfoods.com.
Ware, M. 2017. Eggplant health benefits and tasty tips. www.medicalnewstoday.com.
