Eggplant, a common vegetable on the Chinese table, has been labelled "unfit for the elderly" in recent years. Many people, especially the elderly, are beginning to wonder: Is eggplant really bad for the elderly? Doctors reminded us that in addition to eggplant, there are several vegetables that the elderly must not ignore.
First, let's explore why eggplants have become the focus of health controversy. Eggplant is rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, and has a variety of health benefits such as antioxidants and lowering blood lipids. However, eggplant contains an alkaloid called solanine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and even poisoning if ingested in excess. In some cases, especially for older people with weakened digestion, eggplants can indeed cause problems.
Eggplant is rich in dietary fiber, which helps to promote intestinal peristalsis and prevent constipation. In addition, the lycopene and anthocyanins in eggplant have antioxidant effects and help fight free radical damage to cells. However, solanine in eggplant is a natural toxin that is somewhat neurotoxic, and excessive intake may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
According to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, moderate intake of eggplant is safe for most people, but for some older adults with weakened digestive systems, solanine may cause gastrointestinal upset. Neither the World Health Organization (WHO) nor the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) lists eggplant as a harmful food, but it is recommended that the elderly eat it in moderation and avoid excessive consumption.
In real life, eggplant is often used to make a variety of delicacies, such as braised eggplant, garlic eggplant, etc. However, excessive consumption, especially undercooked eggplant, may lead to excessive solanine intake, increasing health risks. Therefore, for the elderly, reasonable control of eggplant intake is key.
Several vegetables that cannot be ignored by the elderly
1. Leafy greens
Nutrition and health effects
Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and lettuce, are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants. These nutrients play an important role in bone health, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function in older adults. Vitamin K contributes to bone mineralization and prevents osteoporosis; Folic acid helps in the production of red blood cells and prevents anemia.
According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, the intake of leafy greens is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) also recommends that older adults increase their intake of green leafy vegetables to improve overall health.
2. Root vegetables
Root vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and taro, are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. The β-carotene in carrots is a precursor to vitamin A, which helps maintain vision and immune function; Sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevent constipation.