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The time has come to decide what’s going in the garden this year, and if you love nothing more than seeing a splash of color in the backyard, then eggplant is the way to go.

If you’re like some of us, though, this is one vegetable (technically a fruit) that you may not have mastered, but considering the health benefits described at Eat This!, it could be time to learn.

Antioxidant Activity
Eggplant contains several phytonutrients with good antioxidant activity: caffeic, chlorogenic acid and the flavonoid, nasunin. Nasunin is a powerful antioxidant that has been proven to fight free radical activity in the body. Animal studies have found that nasunin protects lipids (fats) in brain cell membranes. Chlorogenic acid is also considered a potent antioxidant with many proven benefits.

Heart Health
Animal studies show that eggplant may help lower overall cholesterol in the body and help to improve blood flow. The antioxidant compounds in eggplant help to prevent oxidative stress to the cardiovascular system and thus reduce the risk of heart attack and heart disease. Eggplant is also a good source of fiber, which is needed to maintain good cardiovascular health.

As for recipes, check out Eating Well‘s list of healthy options to give a new twist to your cooking routine.

Full story at Eat This!

All about nutrition.

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