September’s food of the month is: eggplant!
Eggplant (also known as aubergine, melongene, brinjal, or guinea squash) is widely enjoyed by multiple cultures around the world and is a very healthy food to include in your diet! Here are some mental and physical health benefits of the eggplant: First and foremost, the eggplant peel is high in an antioxidant called nasunin. Nasunin prevents cell damage to brain cells by preventing free radicals from attacking the cells and ridding them of the fat layer that they need to keep the cell healthy. Eating food, like eggplant, that is high in nasunin helps the brain function at its peak, positively affecting intellectual capabilities and memory.
A second antioxidant in eggplant is chlorogenic acid which works to prevent cancer, reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and is an anti-viral and anti-bacterial compound.
Eggplant also contains a compound called scopoletin. This compound functions to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms by regulating serotonin in the brain to reduce. Research has thought that having abnormal levels of serotonin is partially the cause for anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Eggplants are low fat and also have low soluble carbs as well as high dietary fiber. This is the perfect combination to control Type 2 diabetes and lower cholesterol. Having diabetes has been shown to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s so it is important to include foods that help regulate blood sugar levels for the short run and the long run!
Finally, foods such as eggplant that are high in fiber tend to improve overall mood and reduce depressive symptoms as well. Usually diets low in fiber result in constipation, which is essentially backing up toxins in your body for an extended period of time. A build up of those toxins can trigger depressive symptoms.
Now that you know the significant mental and physical health benefits of eggplants, we hope you enjoy the upcoming recipes this month and enjoy including eggplant in your diet!
Eggplant, Grilled Onions and Gouda Sandwich (see recipe)
Baba Ganoush (see recipe)
Grilled Eggplant and Vegetable Parmesan (see recipe)
Moroccan Stewed Chicken with Eggplant (see recipe)
How do you like to eat eggplant? We would love to hear your response to this article! Please feel free to leave a comment. (Comments can be left anonymously if you type “anonymous” or just your initials into the name box).