Cabbage is a type of Brassica vegetable that is easily found everywhere. Biologically, cabbage is still related to broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. Like other vegetables, cabbage is full of nutrients that the body needs. Cabbage contains vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, carbohydrates, protein, manganese, fiber, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B1 (thiamin). A number of other micronutrients in small amounts such as vitamin A, iron, and riboflavin are also contained in cabbage. Consuming 50 grams of cooked cabbage can even meet about 54 percent of daily vitamin C needs. This vegetable is also low in calories and contains almost no fat.

In addition, cabbage contains antioxidants, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. These nutritious compounds are more contained in purple cabbage than green cabbage.

Judging from the many nutrients in cabbage, it's no wonder that cabbage has a myriad of properties that are good for the body when consumed. Some of the benefits of cabbage include:

Cabbage contains the anticancer compound sulforaphane which is thought to be able to reduce the risk of cancer. Sulforaphane is thought to inhibit harmful enzymes that make cancer cells grow. Cabbage also has good antioxidant content. Research shows that consuming cabbage and similar vegetables is thought to delay or inhibit various types of cancer, such as colorectal, breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancer.

In addition to protecting the body from cancer, polyphenol antioxidants and anthocyanins are also able to suppress inflammation which can increase the risk of heart disease. How, by preventing the accumulation of platelets and reducing blood pressure. Cabbage contains soluble fiber and phytosterols which are known to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels. The results of the analysis of several studies show that people who consume 2-10 grams of soluble fiber per day experience a slight decrease in LDL cholesterol levels.

The content of various antioxidants in cabbage can help reduce inflammation, both acute and chronic. Several studies have shown that people who regularly eat vegetables, including cabbage, experience less inflammation than those who rarely eat vegetables.

Fermented cabbage, rich in probiotics that are useful for the immune system and digestion. Vitamins and minerals are also more easily absorbed by the body with the help of these good bacteria. In addition, the fiber and water content in cabbage can help prevent constipation and keep the digestive tract healthy.

One of the compounds in cabbage is thought to be able to protect the body from the side effects of radiation therapy. However, further research is still needed to prove the claims for the benefits of cabbage.

Although cabbage has a myriad of benefits, don't overeat this one vegetable. Eating too much cabbage can cause flatulence and nausea. There are various benefits of cabbage that can be enjoyed, but you still have to be careful in consuming it. Ask a nutritionist to find out more about the benefits.