Eggplant, aubergine or brinjal is a plant species in the nightshade family Solanaceae. Solanum melongena is grown worldwide for its edible fruit. Most commonly purple, the spongy, absorbent fruit is used in several cuisines. Although often considered a vegetable, it is a berry by botanical definition.
There are many kinds of Eggplant varieties.
Graffiti Eggplant
Graffiti eggplant, sometimes called Sicilian eggplant, get its name from its purple and white stripes. Unfortunately, the stripes do disappear when the eggplant is cooked. This variety is completely multi-purpose — it can be used in any recipe regular eggplant is called for.
Italian Eggplant
While it may look a whole lot like the standard globe eggplant you find at the grocery store, Italian eggplant is distinct. It’s slightly smaller, but still quite large and fat, and the flesh tends to be more tender. Use it in any preparation, but of course it’s wonderful used in Italian dishes like caponata.
Japanese and Chinese Eggplant
Characterized by their long, narrow shape, both Japanese and Chinese eggplant can be hard to differentiate. Japanese eggplant tends to have a much deeper purple color, while Chinese eggplant is usually lighter, more lavender-purple, and is sometimes even longer. Both have a nice, thin skin, don’t contain many seeds, and have flesh that’s extra creamy when cooked. Use either just like regular eggplant, but they’re particularly great grilled or in stir-fries.
Fairy Tale Eggplant
This tiny eggplant is easily the cutest one around. This heirloom variety has purple and white stripes and is no bigger than the palm of your hand. They can be prepared in the same way as larger eggplants, but take especially well to grilling since they’re so tender.
White Eggplant
There are lots of white varieties out there, but what sets them all apart is, of course, their pure white skin. Inside, however, is the same eggplant flesh we all know and love. Prepare it just like you would any standard eggplant.
Indian Eggplant
Also called baby eggplant, this variety is small and squat with a dark reddish-purple color. You can use it in an Indian preparation like a curry, but it’s also great roasted or stuffed.
Little Green Eggplant
This heirloom variety is plump and round with a pale green-colored skin. It has a mild flavor and cooks up extra creamy. It can be used in any recipe that calls for regular eggplant.
Thai Eggplant
Thai eggplant is tiny, round, and greenish-white in color. This variety is hard to find, but if you do get your hands on it, try adding a handful to a Thai curry.
7 Surprising Health Benefits of Eggplants
Eggplants, also known as aubergines, belong to the nightshade family of plants and are used in many different dishes around the world.
Although often considered a vegetable, they're technically a fruit, as they grow from a flowering plant and contain seeds.
There are many varieties that range in size and color. And while eggplants with a deep purple skin are most common, they can be red, green or even black .
In addition to bringing a unique texture and mild flavor to recipes, eggplant brings a host of potential health benefits.
This article takes a deep look at 7 health benefits of eggplants.
1. Rich in Many Nutrients
Eggplants are a nutrient-dense food, meaning they contain a good amount of vitamins, minerals and fiber in few calories.
One cup (82 grams) of raw eggplant contains the following nutrients :
Calories: 20
Carbs: 5 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Protein: 1 gram
Manganese: 10% of the RDI
Folate: 5% of the RDI
Potassium: 5% of the RDI
Vitamin K: 4% of the RDI
Vitamin C: 3% of the RDI
Eggplants also contain small amounts of other nutrients, including niacin, magnesium and copper.
Summary Eggplant provides a good amount of fiber, vitamins and minerals in few calories.
2. High in Antioxidants
In addition to containing a variety of vitamins and minerals, eggplants boast a high number of antioxidants.
Antioxidants are substances that help protect the body from damage caused by harmful substances known as free radicals .
Studies have shown that antioxidants could help prevent many types of chronic disease, such as heart disease and cancer .
Eggplants are especially rich in anthocyanins, a type of pigment with antioxidant properties that's responsible for their vibrant color .
In particular, an anthocyanin in eggplants called nasunin is especially beneficial.
In fact, multiple test-tube studies have confirmed that it's effective at protecting cells against damage from harmful free radicals .
Summary Eggplants are high in anthocyanins, a pigment with antioxidant properties that can protect against cellular damage.
3. May Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease
Thanks to their antioxidant content, some studies suggest that eggplants may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
In one study, rabbits with high cholesterol were given 0.3 ounces (10 ml) of eggplant juice daily for two weeks.
At the end of the study, they had lower levels of both LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, two blood markers that can lead to an increased risk of heart disease when elevated .
Other studies have demonstrated that eggplants may have a protective effect on the heart.
In one study, animals were fed raw or grilled eggplant for 30 days. Both types improved heart function and reduced heart attack severity .
While these results are promising, it's important to note that current research is limited to animal and test-tube studies. Further research is needed to evaluate how eggplants may affect heart health in humans.
Summary Some animal studies have found that eggplants may improve heart function and reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, though human research is needed.
4. May Promote Blood Sugar Control
Adding eggplants to your diet may help keep your blood sugar in check.
This is primarily because eggplants are high in fiber, which passes through the digestive system intact .
Fiber can lower blood sugar by slowing the rate of digestion and absorption of sugar in the body. Slower absorption keeps blood sugar levels steady and prevents spikes and crashes .
Other research suggests that polyphenols, or natural plant compounds, found in foods like eggplant may reduce sugar absorption and increase insulin secretion, both of which can help lower blood sugar .
One test-tube study looked at polyphenol-enriched extracts of eggplant. It showed that they could reduce levels of specific enzymes that influence sugar absorption, helping reduce blood sugar .
Eggplants fit well into current dietary recommendations for controlling diabetes, which include a high-fiber diet rich in whole grains and vegetables .
Summary Eggplants are high in fiber and polyphenols, both of which may help reduce blood sugar levels.
5. Could Help With Weight Loss
Eggplants are high in fiber and low in calories, making them an excellent addition to any weight loss regimen.
Fiber moves through the digestive tract slowly and can promote fullness and satiety, reducing calorie intake .
Each cup (82 grams) of raw eggplant contains 3 grams of fiber and just 20 calories .
Additionally, eggplants are often used as a high-fiber, low-calorie replacement for higher-calorie ingredients in recipes.
Summary Eggplant is high in fiber but low in calories, both of which can help promote weight loss. It can also be used in place of higher-calorie ingredients.
6. May Have Cancer-Fighting Benefits
Eggplant contains several substances that show potential in fighting cancer cells.
For instance, solasodine rhamnosyl glycosides (SRGs) are a type of compound found in some nightshade plants, including eggplant.
Some animal studies have shown that SRGs could cause the death of cancer cells and may also help reduce the recurrence of certain types of cancer .
Though research on the topic is limited, SRGs have been shown to be especially effective against skin cancer when applied directly to the skin .
Furthermore, several studies have found that eating more fruits and vegetables, such as eggplant, may protect against certain types of cancer.
One review looking at approximately 200 studies found that eating fruits and vegetables was associated with protection against pancreatic, stomach, colorectal, bladder, cervical and breast cancer .
However, more research is needed to determine how the compounds found in eggplants may specifically affect cancer in humans.
Summary Eggplants contain solasodine rhamnosyl glycosides, which test-tube studies indicate may aid in cancer treatment. Eating more fruits and vegetables may also protect against some types of cancer.
7. Very Easy to Add to Your Diet
Eggplant is incredibly versatile and can be easily incorporated into your diet.
It can be baked, roasted, grilled or sautéed and enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil and a quick dash of seasoning.
It can also be used as a low-calorie replacement for many high-calorie ingredients.
This can reduce your carb and calorie intake, all while increasing the fiber and nutrient content of your meal.
Summary Eggplant is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared and enjoyed in a variety of different ways.
The Bottom Line
Eggplant is a high-fiber, low-calorie food that is rich in nutrients and comes with many potential health benefits.
From reducing the risk of heart disease to helping with blood sugar control and weight loss, eggplants are a simple and delicious addition to any healthy diet.
They're also incredibly versatile and fit well into many dishes.
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