Cabbage (Chou vert) is often grouped together in the same category as lettuce because they have a similar appearance, but it is actually part of the vegetable family known as cruciferous. These cruciferous vegetables (like cabbages) are known to be good for the body because they are full of nutrients. Cabbage may vary in color from green to red and purple, and their leaves can be smooth or crinkled.

Benefits

• Packed with vitamin C

Vitamin C is also referred to as ascorbic acid and plays several important roles in the body. For example, vitamin C is necessary in the production of collagen, an important protein in the body, which is responsible for the structure and flexibility of the skin among other things. In addition, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. In fact, it is so powerful that it is used extensively in the research for fighting cancer.

• Helps improve digestion

If improving your digestive health is priority for you then the fiber-rich cabbage (Chou vert) is a great option. The vegetable is full with insoluble fiber, which are great for your gut. The insoluble fiber is a type of carbohydrate that cannot be broken down in the intestines. Therefore, this carbohydrate helps keep the digestive system healthy by adding bulk to stool and promoting regular bowel movements.

• May help keep inflammation in check

Inflammation is not a bad thing. The human body relies on inflammations to protect against infections or to speed up healing and this somewhat acute inflammation is a normal phenomenon. However, inflammations become a problem when they occur over long periods known as chronic inflammations. These inflammations are associated with many health conditions such as heart diseases. Vegetables like cabbages (Chou vert) contain many different antioxidants that have been shown to reduce the likelihood of chronic inflammation. A study once found that eating cruciferous vegetables like cabbages (Chou vert) could help reduce certain blood markers related to inflammation.