Will Bulsiewicz, American gastroenterologist, shares on his Instagram account (theguthealthmd) advice and tips on nutrition. He recently revealed the 3 vegetables with various health benefits to include now in your fall diet.
Beetroot, to improve blood circulation
There beet is rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. It contains in particular soluble fibers which promote digestion. In addition, the antioxidants in beets, notably betacyanins, help prevent cellular aging and cancer.
Beetroot is also rich in nitrates, which are converted to nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a gas that dilates blood vessels, improving blood circulation. A study showed that beet juice can reduce blood pressure in people suffering from hypertension.
Acorn squash, to better assimilate nutrients
There acorn squash, or squash, is a nutrient-rich fall vegetable. It is particularly a good source of vitamin A (beta-carotene) and vitamin Cwhich contribute to the health of the skin, eyes and immune system.
In addition, acorn squash facilitates the assimilation of nutrients thanks to its content of soluble fiber. They dissolve in water and form a gel which slows digestion. This allows nutrients to be released from food more slowly, making them easier to absorb into the body.
Red cabbage, to stock up on antioxidants
Cabbages in general are known for their preventive effect against cancer due to their concentration of glucosinolates. It is also the latter which give them this particular bitter taste. But red cabbage has the particularity of containing a powerful antioxidant,anthocyanin.
Anthocyanins help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can help slow down the cellular aging process and reduce the risk of cancers and chronic diseases. Anthocyanins are natural pigments that give red cabbage its red or purple color. They are also found in many other fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries and blackberries.
How to prepare them?
To preserve the nutritional benefits of these vegetables, it is important to prepare them in a way that does not distort them.
There gentle steam cooking is a good option for beets and acorn squash. You could cook beetroot soup or squash gratin for example.
Red cabbage can be fermented to improve its digestibility and to be prepared in salad.