Thai eggplants are probably some of the smallest varieties of eggplants that you will encounter. Just how small are they? Were, they are about the same size as golf balls! But even though Thai eggplants are tiny vegetables, their nutritional profile can make them stand so much taller than some other vegetables out there.
If you are into healthy eating and you are looking for new vegetables to add to your diet on a regular basis, continue reading. Afterwards, share this article to introduce your family and friends to Thai eggplants, too!
Thai eggplants can come in a bunch of color varieties. Some of them are light green while others have white and purple variegations. But no matter the color, all Thai eggplants are just like golf balls in size. However, it’s not unlikely for you to come across those that are even smaller.
One of the nicest things about Thai eggplants is they can be eaten raw. They boast of a crunchy texture and kind of bitter taste. These very tiny eggplants are commonly added to sweet and sour dishes as well as curries. In Thailand, they are usually pickled and oftentimes used for making a traditional Thai chili sauce.
Since they are still eggplants, they can be cooked in a variety of ways — they may be small but they are just as versatile in the kitchen as their larger counterparts. Thai eggplants can be grilled, roasted, deep fried and baked. They may also be stuffed just like regular eggplants, provided that you have the patience!
Here are some of the health benefits that you can enjoy for including Thai eggplants to your diet:
Lowered Blood Pressure
Do you have high blood pressure or hypertension? Make sure that you regularly consume Thai eggplants. Because they are rich in potassium that helps widen the blood vessels, these tiny vegetables can help in lowering your blood pressure. Medical doctors say that potassium is also good managing heart palpitations.
Reduced Cholesterol
Consuming Thai eggplants on a regular basis also helps in lowering the amount of cholesterol in the blood. In other words, these smaller versions of eggplants may save the arteries from becoming clogged up. By the way, high cholesterol and high blood pressure are both regarded as risk factors for heart disease, heart attack and stroke.
Prevented Constipation
If you are prone to having trouble moving your bowels, then it’s a good idea for you to welcome Thai eggplants into your life. That’s because they are excellent sources of fiber that helps in sweeping toxins and digestive by-products out of the colon. Fiber in Thai eggplants and other vegetables may also fend off piles and colon cancer.
Maintained Normal Sugar Levels
Diabetics as well as those who are at high risk of diabetes can benefit a lot from the regular intake of Thai eggplants — their fiber content is known to help regulate the release of sugar into the bloodstream. Thanks to these golf ball-sized eggplants, it can be easier to dodge hyperglycemia and its many complications.
Curbed Appetite
Anyone who is trying to shed off excess pounds should consider including Thai eggplants in their diet. Being high in fiber, they can help in staving off hunger pangs and cravings. Thai eggplants are also very low in saturated fat and calories. Of course their intake is best paired with regular exercise or simply being physically active.
Strengthened Immune System
Thai eggplants, according to nutritionists, are good sources of vitamin C. Needless to say, you can have your immune system strengthened simply by consuming them as regularly as possible. By the way, vitamin C is also essential for keeping your hair, nails and skin healthy and lovely.