Dark-colored plants like green leafy vegetables, orange carrots or red bell peppers are nutritious due to the high beta carotene content which contributes to that rich color. The same thing applies to eggplants. There are several varieties of eggplants but the deep purple ones are the most popular.
The unique characteristic of eggplants is the fact that they contain a phytonutrient called nasunin. Studies show that nasunin is a powerful antioxidant whose main function is to protect the brain cell membranes from damage.
Eggplants are also rich in dietary fibers and they are a good source of vitamins B1, B3, B6, folate, magnesium and potassium. These elongated and smooth-skinned veggies also help reduce cholesterol level, improve cardiovascular health and help prevent certain cancers.
Aside from the regular eggplants that you see in the supermarket, there is also the Japanese or Asian variety which is shorter and has a different color, the Italian or the baby eggplants, and the white eggplants which have a unique flavor. Eggplants are definitely nutritious vegetables which can also be considered as the ultimate ‘brain food’.