Garden egg, also known as African eggplant or garden eggplant, is a popular vegetable in many regions of the world. It is widely available in Africa, particularly in Nigeria. Garden egg is oval-shaped and can also come in colours purple, white and green.
Aside from being nutritious and delicious in dishes, garden egg offers numerous health benefits. Whether you consume it raw or add it to stews and soups, there are some functions of garden egg in the body that you should know about. Read below.
1. Its Nutritional Value:
Garden egg is low in calories but high in fibre and essential nutrients. It contains vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin K, and minerals like potassium and folate. These nutrients help support a healthy immune system, improve energy levels, and maintain overall well-being.
2. Richness in Antioxidants:
Garden egg is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins and flavonoids. These compounds help protect the body against free radical damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Regular consumption of garden eggs can contribute to improved cardiovascular health and a stronger defence against cellular damage.
3. For Healthy Digestion:
With its high fibre content, a garden egg is beneficial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. It aids in preventing constipation, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports a balanced gut microbiome. The fibre content also assists in regulating blood sugar levels, making garden eggs a suitable vegetable for individuals with diabetes or those aiming to manage their blood sugar.
4. For Weight Management:
The low-calorie content, coupled with its high fibre content, makes garden eggs an excellent addition to a weight-loss or weight-management diet. The fibre keeps you feeling fuller for longer, reducing the chances of overeating or snacking on unhealthy foods.
Including garden eggs in your meals helps promote satiety while providing essential nutrients your body needs.
5. For Healthy Heart:
The presence of potassium in garden eggs contributes to heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure. Potassium works as a vasodilator, which relaxes the tension in blood vessels and arteries, reducing the strain on the cardiovascular system. This, in turn, lowers the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other related heart conditions.
6. For Healthy Bones:
Garden egg is a good source of vitamin K, which plays a vital role in calcium absorption and bone health. Vitamin K ensures the proper deposition of calcium in bones and helps reduce the risk of conditions like osteoporosis.
With garden eggs in your diet, it can help maintain strong and healthy bones as you age.
7. For Healthy Eyes:
The presence of vitamin C, along with other antioxidants, in garden eggs contributes to maintaining healthy eyes. Vitamin C is essential in protecting the eyes against macular degeneration and cataracts, two common age-related eye conditions.
The antioxidants found in garden eggs also help reduce oxidative stress in the eyes, promoting better vision and overall eye health.
Garden eggs are nutritious vegetables that offer numerous health benefits. Its low-calorie, high-fibre, and antioxidant content make it an ideal addition to any diet, promoting overall body health. So, why not add this delicious and nutritious vegetable to your meals and enjoy all its wonderful benefits?
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