What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Eggplant

Eggplants aren't very popular in the United States but this vegetable can be found in a variety of dishes around the globe. Also called aubergines, eggplants come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, but the dark purple skinned variety is the most popular. Although this vegetable isn't as widely used in the U.S., it is packed with health benefits (via Healthline).

Eggplants contain many vitamins and minerals including manganese, folate, potassium, vitamin K, and vitamin C. One cup of eggplant contains only 20 calories, making it a nutrient-dense food. When you eat eggplant, you will get full quickly without consuming a large amount of calories. This can be helpful if you are trying to lose weight. Eggplants are high in antioxidants, which help to fight against damage caused by free radicals in the body. A diet high in antioxidants can prevent diseases like cancer and heart disease. If you eat eggplant every day, you'll reduce your risk of developing these diseases. 

Eggplant is a great vegetable to regularly add to your diet. According to Medical News Today, the antioxidants, fiber, potassium, and vitamins in eggplant all support a healthy heart. The fiber in eggplant can reduce bad cholesterol levels and the polyphenols may reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer. Eating this vegetable regularly may also improve cognitive function, improve eye health, and aid in weight management.

Eggplants can be prepared in a variety of ways. They have a slightly bitter taste on their own, so it is important to sweat an eggplant before cooking it. You can do this by slicing your eggplant and sprinkling each slice with salt about 30 minutes before you need to cook them. This will draw out moisture and some of the bitterness of the vegetable. Eggplant can be baked, fried, or grilled. Its spongy texture is very absorbent, so you may want to bread the eggplant before frying it to avoid an oily mess.