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Health Benefits of Bok Choy (Chinese Cabbage)

Chandramita Bora
Bok choy or Chinese cabbage is a green leafy vegetable that is immensely rich in several essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, etc. Find out more about the health benefits of this amazing vegetable by going through this write-up.

Bok choy is commonly known as Chinese cabbage or snow cabbage. The scientific name of bok choy is Brassica chinensis. The cultivation of this vegetable dates back to 6000 years, and the Chinese were the first to use this vegetable in their delectable cuisines.
Chinese cabbage belongs to the plant family Cruciferae, which includes vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.
Why Should You Eat Bok Choy?
The lush green leaves of this vegetable are ideal for salads and soups. Besides known for its great taste, bok choy has several health benefits.
Bok choy is a rich source of many essential vitamins, like vitamin A, C, and K. Vitamin A is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system, healthy vision, and the proper growth of bones and teeth, while vitamin K plays a significant role in blood coagulation.
Vitamin K also facilitates the absorption of calcium, and maintains bone density. Vitamin C is a well-known natural antioxidant, which protects the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. Chinese cabbage is a rich source of vitamin D, which facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and thereby promotes the health of bones and teeth.
This vegetable can provide sufficient amounts of folate and vitamin B6. Folate is mainly required for the proper development of tissues and cells, and it can lower the risk of heart disease. Vitamin B6 on the other hand, is crucial for carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, and for the formation of red blood cells and antibodies.
Chinese cabbage contains a significant amount of carotenoids like beta-carotene. Beta-carotenes are known for their antioxidant properties, and they may help reduce the risk of several types of cancer.
Studies conducted in this regard have concluded that the consumption of food rich in beta-carotene may lower the risk of certain types of cancer. Carotenoids are also beneficial for eye problems like glaucoma and ocular degeneration.
Chinese cabbage also contains many important minerals like calcium and potassium. Calcium is crucial for healthy bones and teeth, while potassium maintains the electrolyte balance in our body.
Potassium may also reduce the risk of circulatory diseases like heart disease. It is responsible for regulating the level of blood pressure. In addition to vitamins and minerals, it is a good source of dietary fiber.
Another important nutritional fact about Chinese cabbage is that it is fat-free and low in sodium. A high level of sodium can increase the risk of heart disease. Many studies have revealed an association between the consumption of cruciferous vegetables like bok choy, cauliflowers, and broccoli, and the reduced risk of developing certain types of cancer.
These vegetables contain a compound called glucosinolate, which is converted to isothiocyanate in our body. Isothiocyanates are believed to be responsible for fighting cancer cells, and strengthening the immune system.
So, this nutritious vegetable can protect you against a number of ailments, including heart disease, cancer, and muscular degeneration, besides providing the nutrients required for carrying out the crucial life processes.