Recent scientific studies have revealed the beneficial properties of a vegetable that, unfortunately, does not often appear on our table. And this, as it turns out, is in vain. The results of the experiment were commented on by endocrinologist Zukhra Pavlova.
The microorganisms residing in our intestines have a significant impact on its health. The condition of the intestines can be improved not only with medications but also through certain foods, reports doctorpiter.
Researchers from the USA published results confirming the existence of "dietary methods" for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases, which also help alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
The experiment was conducted on mice; however, scientists are confident that their findings are applicable to humans, as the manifestations of inflammatory bowel diseases in rodents are similar to ours.
Thus, the researchers concluded that **fresh red cabbage** possesses remarkable properties that may have a promising impact on the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases. Nevertheless, the mechanism of action of this vegetable remains unclear.
**Activates immune cells and protects against toxins**
"The symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases are alleviated by the juice of red cabbage, which stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria and alters the composition of the intestinal microbiota," comments the physician on the study's results. "The production of not only short-chain fatty acids but also other metabolites (enzymes, vitamins, amino acids) of bacterial origin increases."
According to Pavlova, **fresh cabbage juice is also beneficial because:**
* it improves the barrier function of the intestine, preventing the entry of toxins, food antigens, and microorganisms from the intestinal lumen into the bloodstream and tissues;
* it activates immune T-cells, contributing to the maintenance of an anti-inflammatory balance.
Recipes
Baked Red Cabbage
This method of preparing red cabbage will surprise even the most discerning gourmets, as the tender, aromatic glaze will give it a unique flavor.
Ingredients:
• Cabbage – 1 piece;
• Garlic – 1 clove;
• Honey – half a teaspoon;
• Dijon mustard – half a teaspoon;
• Olive oil – 4 tbsp;
• Balsamic vinegar – 2 tbsp;
• Salt, pepper.
Preparation method:
• Preheat the oven to 200 degrees;
• Place parchment paper on a baking sheet;
• Thoroughly wash the cabbage;
• Cut it into large, even wedges;
• Peel the garlic;
• Crush it with a knife;
• Add the garlic to the mixture of the other ingredients;
• Mix until a homogeneous mass is obtained;
• Place the cabbage on the parchment;
• Brush with the prepared dressing;
• Bake for twenty minutes until a crust forms.
Stewed Red Cabbage
The taste and aroma of stewed cabbage are familiar to almost every housewife. To make the dish richer, you can add not only ripe, sweet apples but also hunting sausages or any other meat.
Ingredients:
• Cabbage – 405 g;
• Apples – 2 pieces;
• Purple onion – 1 piece;
• Sausages – 7 pieces;
• Apple cider – 255 ml;
• Apple vinegar – 55 ml;
• Vegetable oil – 55 ml;
• Salt, pepper.
Preparation method:
• Heat the oil in a pan;
• Fry the sausages for five to seven minutes until golden brown;
• Remove them to a plate;
• Wash the apples;
• Cut into four pieces;
• Remove the seeds;
• Wash the cabbage;
• Shred it into equal slices;
• Peel the onion;
• Cut into quarters of rings;
• Reduce the heat;
• Add the apples to the pan;
• Add the cabbage with the onion;
• Mix thoroughly;
• Stew for about six minutes until the apples are soft;
• Return the sausages to the pan;
• Mix;
• Pour in the cider and vinegar;
• Mix again;
• Stew for another twenty to twenty-five minutes, stirring occasionally with a spatula.
