Carbohydrates are essential nutrients that provide energy to the body. As the main source of energy, carbohydrates will be converted into glucose and used as fuel for the body to carry out daily functions. Aside from being the primary source of energy, carbohydrates are also used as fuel by the brain and the nervous system to maintain proper function.
However, eating too many carbohydrates can have negative effects on the body, such as weight gain, an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and a loss of blood sugar control.
Benefits of consuming vegetables
Eating vegetables provides many health benefits. They are rich in essential nutrients, high in fiber, lower the risk of disease, help with weight management, reduce inflammation, improve skin and hair health, and provide energy without raising blood sugar levels like processed foods. Some vegetables are also low in carbohydrates but high in fiber, making them ideal for those on a low-carb diet.
Types of vegetables that are low in carbohydrates and rich in fiber
Fiber has many health benefits, including regulating digestion, managing blood sugar, maintaining heart health, lowering the risk of certain diseases, aiding in weight loss, and supporting gut health. Eating vegetables high in fiber and low in carbohydrates will help the body get the optimal benefits.
Here are some recommended types of vegetables:
Cauliflower
In addition to fiber, cauliflower is rich in vitamins C, K, B6, folate, pantothenic acid, potassium, manganese, choline, magnesium, and phosphorus. Cauliflower is a popular vegetable that can be used instead of rice or pasta due to its low carbohydrate and calorie content.
Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the vegetables high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The fiber content aids digestion, while the essential vitamins and minerals in it, such as folate, potassium, and vitamin C, help support various vital body functions, including the immune system and heart health.
Asparagus
Asparagus is a complete nutritional package because besides being rich in fiber, it also contains vitamins A, C, K, E, folate, and potassium, all of which have significant health benefits. Vitamins A, C, and E act as antioxidants, protecting body cells from free radical damage and supporting immune system function.
Vitamin K is essential for normal blood clotting and bone health. During pregnancy, folate is essential for red blood cell formation and fetal development, whereas potassium regulates blood pressure and muscle function.
Purple cabbage
The purple color of purple cabbage indicates the presence of strong antioxidant compounds that can protect the body from cell damage and inflammation. Purple cabbage's high fiber content aids in the movement of food through the digestive system, lowering the risk of constipation.
The fiber in purple cabbage provides food for good bacteria in the gut and supports overall digestive health. When cabbage is fermented, it contains natural probiotics that help maintain the balance of microorganisms in the gut.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a low-carb, high-fiber vegetable option. Their healthy fiber content helps maintain good digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Furthermore, their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties aid in blood sugar regulation, cholesterol management, and blood pressure reduction.
While low-carb diets do not work for everyone, you may still need to limit your carbohydrate intake. Limiting carbohydrates reduces the risk of diabetes and improves overall health. Consult your doctor or nutritionist about your carbohydrate intake and other nutrients needed for your specific body condition.
If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- Sean Edbert Lim, MBBS