Brinjal is also known as egg plant and has a bitter taste and spongy texture. In addition to phyto-nutrients and minerals like calcium, iron, copper, manganese, zinc, magnesium and electrolytes like potassium, sodium etc, it contains essential vitamins, protein and carbohydrates. Besides being a rich source of potassium, it has high content of dietary fiber and water. This vegetable is low in saturated fat and contains no cholesterol.
Since brinjals are naturally low in calories, it is an excellent choice for people who want to lose weight. Fiber helps in regulating blood sugar and also keeps the cholesterol levels low. Besides this, egg plant contains a host of powerful antioxidants. Nasunin is an antioxidant present in the skin of brinjal protects the cells from the damage caused by free radicals and chlorogenic acid might have anti-cancer properties. Brinjal can treat insomnia, flatulence, hypertension, enlarged spleen and aid digestion.
B Vitamins:
Egg plant has various B vitamins like vitamin B1 also known as thiamine, vitamin B6 also known as pyridoxine, vitamin B3 also known as niacin. These B vitamins in brinjal are necessary for the fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism in your body. They are also helpful in converting food into energy and are the essential vitamins for the nervous system.
Vitamin C:
Brinjal has plenty of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient that is not produced by the body. It is essential for the normal functioning of the internal glands and organs and also increases iron absorption. It is also a natural anti-histamine making it beneficial in controlling the severity of colds. Vitamin C also strengthens the immune system and also helps in preventing free radicals that cause cancer and also produces collagen in the body.
Vitamins A, E, K:
Vitamin A is beneficial for the functioning of immune system, reproduction and also to maintain normal vision. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties and hence it protects the cell from the damage and vitamin K helps in the clotting of blood and is essential for healthy bones.
Cholesterol checking, type II diabetes, minimization of the risk of cancer, improving lipids of brain, alongside the amazing nutritional benefits, this mildly flavored vegetable can work towards the overall well-being of your body. So eat brinjal in any form either baked, soup, mashed or as a low calorie substitute for meat in various cuisines to enjoy all the health benefits of this staple vegetable.
