Food Essentials

KNOWING YOUR CABBAGE(KYC)

Cabbage is thought to be a mundane vegetable by most people. But it has immense mineral and vitamin value. Its medicinal value is far more than understood. Cabbage is advised by doctors at times to treat stomach ulcers and acidity. So do not under estimate this vegetable belonging to Brassicaceae(also called cruciferae) family. The other cruciferous vegetables belonging to this family are cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, bok choi, and mustard plant. The vegetables in the cabbage family have been extensively studied in the US for Cancer prevention. You can find the reference here https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/cruciferous-vegetables-fact-sheet

Cabbage contains flavonoids that stimulate the body to produce enzymes that can help fight cancer. When eaten raw or in juice form, the ulcer – fighting and anti – acidic powers of cabbage comes to the fore. The ulcer – fighting properties of cabbage strengthen the stomach lining. The compounds release a shield that fends off the acid attacks and prevents ulcers. Cabbage juice increases mucous activity that heal the ulcerated cells. Cabbage Juice is known to destroy the harmful bacteria H pylori which causes peptic ulcers.

RECIPE FOR CABBAGE JUICE

Choose a cabbage that is firm and also green and fresh. Cut the cabbage in big pieces and blend it in a juicer to liquify it. Add water to the juice and strain and drink immediately on an empty stomach or when the stomach is reasonably empty. Raw cabbage is used for juicing as as heating destroys the anti -ulcer properties. Cabbage juice taken early morning on an empty stomach cures colitis, ulcers in primary stages.

MINERAL AND VITAMIN VALUE

Cabbage contains valuable minerals such as Sulphur, Chlorine, Iodine which helps in clearing the mucous membrane of the stomach and the intestinal tract.

The vitamins help in the nutrition of the tissues. Vitamin B1 present helps in proper functioning of nerves and increases the metabolic activity. Cabbage has an alkaline effect and is rich in vitamins A, B C & E.

CABBAGE SALAD

A bowl of cabbage salad helps you get these essential vitamins and minerals. 3 cups of shredded cabbage, 1 grated carrot, 1 tsp lemon juice, salt and pepper for taste. Mix these and toss lightly. Your bowl of health is ready. Cabbage may create gases so always mix it with carrot.

TREATING IT RIGHT

Never overcook it, but stir fry with a seasoning of mustard, chopped green chillies is a proper way to eat it. In fact this vegetable is best eaten raw as heat reduces its healing properties.

Know your cabbage well and use it well to maximise its benefits for your health. Always remember heating the cabbage too much destroys its the anti-ulcer properties.

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