Are you looking for a low-calorie food to incorporate into your meal plan? Look no further than cooked cabbage! With just 6 calories per ounce (with salt, drained, cooked, and boiled), it's an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake.
But cabbage offers far more than just a low-calorie count. It's packed with nutrients and offers several health benefits. Read on to learn more about the nutritional benefits of cooked cabbage.
In this article, we'll explore how cooked cabbage can support a healthy, low-calorie diet and provide some tasty recipes to help you incorporate it into your meals.
How many calories are in a serving of cooked cabbage?
As mentioned earlier, one ounce of cooked cabbage (with salt, drained, cooked, and boiled) contains just 6 calories. This makes it an ideal food for those looking to manage their calorie intake while still filling up on nutrient-dense foods.
What are the nutritional benefits of cooked cabbage?
Cooked cabbage is an excellent source of several important nutrients. One serving (one cup, chopped) contains:
- 22 calories
- 5 grams of carbs
- 2 grams of fiber
- 1 gram of protein
- Vitamins C, K, and B6
- Calcium, potassium, and manganese
Cabbage is also high in antioxidants and compounds that may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great addition to any diet.
Is cooked cabbage low in calories?
Yes, cooked cabbage is very low in calories. One serving (one cup, chopped) contains just 22 calories. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their calorie intake and lose weight.
Cooked cabbage: A weight loss-friendly food?
Yes, cooked cabbage is a great food for weight loss. Not only is it low in calories, but it's also high in fiber and water content, which can help you feel full and satisfied. It's also low in fat and high in nutrients, making it a great addition to any diet.
What is the serving size of cooked cabbage and how many calories does it make?
One serving of cooked cabbage is typically considered to be one cup, chopped. This serving contains just 22 calories.
Cooked cabbage nutrition: Macronutrient content
In addition to being low in calories, cooked cabbage is also low in fat and high in fiber. One serving (one cup, chopped) contains:
- 5 grams of carbs
- 2 grams of fiber
- 1 gram of protein
- 0 grams of fat
Cooked cabbage nutrition: Vitamin and mineral content
Cooked cabbage is also rich in several important vitamins and minerals. One serving (one cup, chopped) contains:
- 36% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C
- 81% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin K
- 6% of the daily recommended intake of Calcium
- 5% of the daily recommended intake of Potassium
It also contains smaller amounts of other nutrients, such as Vitamin B
6, Folate, and Manganese.
Cooked cabbage vs other vegetables: A nutritional comparison
While cooked cabbage is a great food for its low-calorie and high-nutrient content, how does it stack up against other vegetables? Here's a comparison of some popular vegetables and their nutritional content per one cup serving:
- Cooked Cabbage: 22 calories, 2g fiber, 81% Vitamin K
- Broccoli: 55 calories, 2.6g fiber, 135% Vitamin C
- Kale: 33 calories, 2.4g fiber, 684% Vitamin K
- Spinach: 7 calories, 0.7g fiber, 560% Vitamin K
As you can see, each vegetable offers unique nutritional benefits. Incorporating a variety of vegetables into your diet is the best way to ensure you're getting a wide range of nutrients.
Cooked cabbage recipes for a low-calorie meal plan
Here are some healthy and delicious recipes to help you incorporate cooked cabbage into your meal plan:
- Cabbage and Apple Salad
- Stir-Fried Cabbage and Mushrooms
- Cabbage Soup with Carrots and Tomatoes
- Baked Cabbage and Sweet Potato Casserole
Experiment with different cooking methods (such as boiling or roasting) and seasonings (such as vinegar or mustard) to find the flavors and textures you enjoy most.
Incorporating cooked cabbage into your diet
There are many ways to add cooked cabbage to your meals. Some ideas include:
- Adding chopped cabbage to stir-fries or soups
- Serving it as a side dish with roasted meats or fish
- Using cabbage leaves as a low-carb wrap for sandwiches or tacos
- Roasting cabbage wedges with olive oil and garlic for a crunchy and flavorful side dish
Get creative and experiment with different recipes and flavors to find the best way to enjoy cooked cabbage.
Eating a variety of vegetables can help you get a wide range of nutrients and support overall health and wellness.
5 FAQ About Cooked Cabbage
1. What are the health benefits of cooked cabbage?
Cooked cabbage is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. It also contains vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
2. How does cooking affect the nutrient content of cabbage?
Cooking cabbage can reduce its vitamin C content, but it also makes certain nutrients more available for absorption. For example, cooking breaks down the fiber in cabbage, making it easier for the body to digest and utilize.
3. What are some tasty ways to prepare cooked cabbage?
Cooked cabbage can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as sautéed with garlic and olive oil, roasted with other vegetables, or added to soups and stews.
4. Is it safe to eat cooked cabbage every day?
Yes, it is generally safe to eat cooked cabbage on a daily basis as part of a balanced diet. However, it's important to vary your intake of vegetables to ensure you're getting a wide range of nutrients.
5. Are there any precautions to keep in mind when cooking cabbage?
Cabbage contains compounds called goitrogens, which can interfere with thyroid function in high amounts. However, cooking cabbage decreases the levels of goitrogens and makes it safe for most people to consume in moderation.