Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable native to Europe that is available in several different varieties. Cabbage is a popular ingredient in many European dishes such as cabbage rolls, and the main ingredient in coleslaw. Cabbage boasts a wide nutritional profile and has several health benefits.
Nutritional Profile
Cabbage is a nutritious vegetable that will increase your nutrient intake if consumed regularly. Cabbage contains beneficial amounts of protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, beta carotene, potassium, sulfur, folic acid and phytonutrients, according to Health-Care-Clinic.org.
Weight Loss Benefits
Cabbage can help you lose weight because it is a food that can be eaten in higher volumes without providing higher calories. Foods higher in fiber like cabbage will fill you up faster, according to the Diet Channel. This could result in less overall calorie consumption and weight loss.
Cabbage Soup Diet
The cabbage soup diet is a diet designed for quick weight loss. It is promoted as a seven-day weight loss program in which you eat very specific foods on each of the seven days, along with unlimited amounts of cabbage soup. According to Diet.com, the cabbage soup diet can result in temporary weight loss, but most people will regain their weight after resuming normal eating patterns.
Selection
When you are choosing cabbage, look for compact, tightly formed heads with tender outer leaves, says Health-Care-Clinic.org. Avoid cabbage that is discolored or looks puffy or withered or has cracks in the leaves. Cabbage loses its vitamin C content quickly after it is cut, so use it as soon as possible after slicing it up.
Varieties
You can find cabbage in green, white or red, in several forms including savoy, round, Chinese and flat headed. Some cabbages are round like a bowling ball, while others are more cylinder-shaped. Other vegetable selections from the cabbage family include broccoli, kale, cauliflower and brussels sprouts, says Health-Care-Clinic.org.
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