Egg Plant

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 (1 Trusted Source).
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 (2):

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 (3Trusted Source).

Studies have shown that antioxidants could help prevent many types of chronic disease, such as heart disease and cancer (4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).

Eggplants are especially rich in anthocyanins, a type of pigment with antioxidant properties that’s responsible for their vibrant color (6Trusted Source).

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 (7 Trusted Source, 8 Trusted Source).

SUMMARY:
Eggplants are high in anthocyanins, a pigment with antioxidant properties that can protect against cellular damage.

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 (11Trusted Source).

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 (12Trusted Source).

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 (13Trusted Source).

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 (14Trusted Source).

Eggplants fit well into current dietary recommendations for controlling diabetes, which include a high-fiber diet rich in whole grains and vegetables (15Trusted Source).

SUMMARY:
Eggplants are high in fiber and polyphenols, both of which may help reduce blood sugar levels.

5. Could Help With Weight Loss
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 (17Trusted Source).

Though research on the topic is limited, SRGs have been shown to be especially effective against skin cancer when applied directly to the skin (18Trusted Source, 19Trusted Source, 20).

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 (21Trusted Source).

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.
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.