Cabbage isn’t just good for your stomach — it also supports heart health, bone strength, and even weight management.

As a cruciferous vegetable, cabbage is especially known for promoting digestive health. Its plant-based nutrients help increase beneficial gut bacteria, keeping your digestive system strong. It’s also rich in vitamin U, an anti-ulcer vitamin that binds with proteins to protect damaged stomach lining and aid in healing digestive ulcers.

But the benefits of cabbage go far beyond your digestive system. It can help prevent arterial calcification, fight pathogens, and support overall health throughout the body. Based on information from sources like Health magazine, here are four surprising benefits of cabbage:

1. Heart Health

Research from Edith Cowan University in Australia found that women who ate enough cabbage had a 46% lower risk of calcification in the abdominal aorta. In other words, cabbage may help prevent calcium buildup in the arteries. It’s also rich in compounds that fight inflammation, supporting a healthy heart.

2. Immune Support

Cabbage is packed with vitamin C, which helps your body absorb plant-based iron, supports collagen production for wound healing, and plays a key role in keeping your immune system strong.

To get the most vitamin C and other nutrients from cabbage, avoid overcooking it. Lightly stir-frying is fine, but the best way is to shred it and enjoy it raw in a salad.

3. Weight Management

Cabbage is high in dietary fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and provide a feeling of fullness. Plus, it’s very low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight.

4. Bone Health

One cup of cooked cabbage contains 68 micrograms of vitamin K. While the recommended daily intake varies by country, in the U.S., adult men need 120 µg per day and adult women 90 µg. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health. A deficiency can lead to easy bruising, weakened bones, and an increased risk of osteoporosis.

Cabbage is a simple, affordable vegetable that packs a punch in supporting heart, immunity, weight, and bone health. Adding it to your diet in salads, lightly stir-fried, or even in soups can bring these benefits to your daily routine.

Source: 코메디닷컴 (kormedi.com)