8 Eggplant Benefits Sexually For Erectile Dysfunction & More

Introduction

Eggplants, often overlooked as a dull, purple vegetable, are actually a nutrient powerhouse with an impressive array of health benefits for men.

From supporting sexual function to protecting against chronic diseases, adding eggplants to your diet can be a simple step towards better overall wellbeing.

Let’s get into the reasons why this humble fruit (yes, it’s technically a fruit!) should be a staple in every man’s diet.

1.   Packed with Nutrients

One of the standout benefits of eggplants is their impressive nutrient density. For relatively few calories, eggplants pack a punch of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. 100 grams of raw eggplant cubes contains:

• Calories: Just 25
• Carbs: 6 grams
• Fiber: A hefty 3 grams (12% of your daily needs)
• Protein: 1 gram
• Manganese: 10% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)
• Folate: 5% of the RDI
• Potassium: 229mg (6% of the RDI)
• Vitamin K: 4% of the RDI
• Vitamin C: 3% of the RDI
• Iron: 1% of the RDI
• Vitamin B6: 5% of the RDI

Eggplants also contain smaller amounts of other vital nutrients like niacin, magnesium, and copper. This well-rounded nutritional profile makes eggplants an excellent addition to any balanced diet, providing a host of health benefits.

2.   Eggplant for Sexual Health

For men, one of the most compelling reasons to add eggplants to their diet is their potential to support sexual health and function. While more research is needed, some studies suggest that eggplants may have aphrodisiac properties and could help maintain healthy testosterone levels.

The secret lies in its unique combination of nutrients, including:

• Vitamin B6: Essential for testosterone production and a healthy libido.
• Zinc: Important for testosterone synthesis and prostate health.
• Potassium: Helps regulate testosterone levels and supports overall sexual function.
• Antioxidants: They combat oxidative stress, which can negatively impact fertility and sexual performance.

Furthermore, eggplants are a good source of dietary nitrates, which improve blood flow and enhance sexual function by promoting vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). The increased blood flow can lead to stronger, longer-lasting erections and improved overall sexual performance.

3.   Eggplant for Prostate Protection

Prostate health is a significant issue for men, especially as they age. Fortunately, thanks to their antioxidant content, eggplants may offer some protection against prostate issues.

Eggplants are rich in anthocyanins, an antioxidant that gives them their vibrant purple color. These powerful compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, which can help lower the risk of prostate cancer and prostate-related problems.

Additionally, the fiber in eggplants may help prevent benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous prostate gland enlargement that can cause urinary issues. Fiber promotes regular bowel movements, reducing pressure on the prostate and alleviating BPH symptoms.

4.   Eggplant for Heart Health

Maintaining a healthy heart is crucial for men of all ages, and eggplants can be a valuable ally in this endeavor. Their high fiber content, antioxidants, and beneficial plant compounds work together to support cardiovascular health in several ways.

First, the soluble fiber in eggplants can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the antioxidants found in eggplants, such as anthocyanins and chlorogenic acid, may help prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a major cause of plaque buildup in arteries.

Furthermore, research suggests that the polyphenols in eggplants may have a protective effect on the heart. In one study, animals fed raw or grilled eggplant for 30 days experienced improved heart function and reduced severity of heart attacks.

5.   Eggplant for Blood Sugar

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential for overall wellbeing and can help prevent conditions like type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Eggplants, with their high fiber and low-calorie content, can be a valuable ally in this journey.

The fiber in eggplants helps slow the absorption of sugars or glucose into the bloodstream, preventing rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. This steady release of glucose can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the strain on the body’s insulin-producing cells.

Moreover, the polyphenols found in eggplants may have additional blood sugar-lowering effects. Studies have shown that these plant compounds can inhibit certain enzymes involved in the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, further helping to regulate blood sugar levels.

6.   Eggplant for Weight Management

For men looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy body size, eggplants can be a powerful tool. With their low-calorie density and high fiber content, eggplants can promote feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially leading to reduced calorie intake.

A single cup of raw eggplant cubes contains just 25 calories but a substantial 3 grams of fiber. This combination can help you feel fuller for longer, making it easier to stick to a low-calorie diet.

In many recipes, eggplants can be used as a low-calorie substitute for higher-calorie ingredients. For example, you can swap out breadcrumbs or flour for roasted eggplant in dishes like meatballs or veggie burgers, cutting calories without sacrificing flavor or texture.

7.   Eggplant Cancer-Fighting Properties

While more research is needed, some studies suggest that eggplants may have cancer-fighting properties thanks to their unique phytochemical composition.

Eggplants contain solasodine rhamnosyl glycosides (SRGs), a compound found in some nightshade plants. Studies have shown that SRGs could induce cell death in cancer cells and may help reduce the recurrence of certain cancers, particularly skin cancer when applied topically.

Furthermore, a review of over 200 studies found that consuming more fruits and vegetables, including eggplants, may protect against various types of cancer, such as pancreatic, stomach, colorectal, bladder, cervical, and breast cancer.

8.   Easy to Incorporate

One of the best things about eggplants is their versatility in the kitchen. They can be baked, roasted, grilled, sautéed, or even stuffed, making them a perfect addition to various dishes.

Eggplants can be used in everything from hearty curries and stir-fries to delicate pasta dishes and dips like baba ghanoush. They also pair well with a variety of flavors, from bold spices to fresh herbs and tangy vinegars.

To get the most out of eggplants, try to incorporate them into your meals a few times a week. Opt for cooking methods that preserve their nutrient content, such as roasting or grilling, and consider leaving the skin on, as it’s a good source of fiber and antioxidants.

The Bottom Line

Eggplants are a nutrient-dense, low-calorie food that offers numerous health benefits for men. From supporting sexual function and prostate health to promoting heart health and weight management, there are plenty of reasons to make this versatile fruit a regular part of your diet.

While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of eggplants’ health-promoting properties, their impressive nutrient profile and potential disease-fighting compounds make them a worthwhile addition to any well-rounded, balanced diet.

References:

https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169228/nutrients

https://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/ss/slideshow-cholesterol-lowering-foods

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8143715/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6920068/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0753332217327324

Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/eggplant-plant-dew-dewdrops-5902351/

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