For most of us Africans, the word "cabbage" doesn't only nauseate us, but it has an almost inherited hatred, well at least in the context of South Africa, and it's mostly because our mothers, especially our grandmothers used to make cabbage part of almost every meal at home. What we ignorantly regarded as 'yukee!!' is actually a powerful health preserving vegetable.
Cabbage is a low calorie, nutrient-dense food that offers an excellent source of Vit. C, folic acid, potassium, Vitamin B6, calcium (Yip!!), biotin, magnesium and manganese. Along with its nutrient content, cabbage also contains powerful phytochemicals and anti-cancer compounds known as glucosinolates. One of the dietary recommendations from the American Cancer Society is to regularly include cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, Brussel sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower in the diet. The main reason for this recommendation is due to the content of a large amount of phytochemicals within the cabbage family.
Studies have shown the higher the intake of the cabbage family vegetables, the lower the rates of cancer, especially breast, lung, colon, and prostate cancers. Experts claim that the glucosinolates in cabbage, function by increasing the antioxidant defense mechanisms, and also improves the body's ability to detoxify and eliminate harmful chemicals and hormones. Furthermore studies have shown that cabbage is extremely effective in the treatment of peptic ulcers.
Our mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers must have known the secret to Optimum Health, beauty and vitality :) Next time you're offered a cabbage --Never say NEVER!!!
Source: Murray , Michael N.D. The Encyclopedia Of Healing Foods.
New York: Atria Books, 2005.
Centers For Disease Control And Prevention-5 A Day.
National Agricultural Library-USDA. usda.gov.
Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia
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