Purple, also called ‘red’ or ‘blue’ Cabbage is compared to Green Cabbage, in an attempt to see which one to choose from. Whilst they both have many benefits, is Purple Cabbage better?
If you never found yourself eating Purple cabbage, you’re missing out! They go perfectly finely chopped in salads. Steamed or lightly fried in a wok. You can also make the most beautiful purple cabbage dolmens if you wrap them around a vegetable mixture or a combination of meat and vegetables. Do not heat them in the microwave, as the rays can break down their nutrients. Which nutrients? Let’s take a look.
Purple vs. Green
To the naked eye, it seems that Green Cabbage is healthier when looked closely. However the difference is somewhat insignificant, apart from the amount of Vitamin K that Green Cabbage has, compared to Purple Cabbage. Vitamin K helps build and promote stronger bones.
However, before we declare Green Cabbage the better Cabbage, let’s look at the overlooked nutrition.
Both are loaded with Vitamin C, which helps repair wounds, bones, cartilage, teeth and more. They both provide iron to prevent anaemia, and improve muscle strength.
What you don’t usually notice is that Purple Cabbage contains 10 times more Lutein, Beta Carotene and Vitamin A than Green Cabbage, which has numerous health benefits.
Health Benefits of Purple Cabbage
The main health benefits are brought on by its ‘purple power’, the anthocyanin, which is a type of antioxidant that fights cancer and has numerous benefits, including the main three below.
- Eye Health — Lutein, Beta Carotene and Vitamin A which help promote eye health and protect against diseases and vision loss.
- Brain Health — Beta Carotene, Magnesium, and Vitamin A all improve the cognitive function, due to its antioxidant effects.
- Cardiovascular Health — Potassium, Vitamin K, Magnesium and Vitamin C all aid in lower blood pressure, healthier blood flow and anti-inflammatory.