Vegetables Are Better Cooked
Why do human beings need to eat vegetables in the first place?
Today, human beings are said to require 300 grams of vegetables each day.
“Vegetables contain vitamins such as A and C, minerals such as iron, calcium and potassium, trace elements and fiber that our bodies need,” states Yoshitaka Aiso of the Diabetes Clinic.
Western-style diets are now commonplace among the Japanese. Consumption of animal fats is on the rise and vegetable intake tends to be insufficient. As a result, Japanese are not getting enough vitamins and minerals. The recent increase in the incidence of iron deficiency anemia is probably a manifestation of this trend. Japanese are also not getting enough vitamin E, the “rejuvenatory vitamin” found in spinach, broccoli, parsley, beefsteak and komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach).
These deficiencies may trigger lifestyle-related diseases such as high cholesterol, arteriosclerosis and diabetes. The sudden increase in cancer of the large intestine is attributed to the modern diet based largely on deep-fried foods and meats.
“Making sure to eat an adequate amount of vegetables is a recognized way to decrease blood pressure and reduce hyperlipemia. Furthermore, the anti-oxidant benefits of beta carotene and lycopene found in green and yellow vegetables as well as non-green/yellow vegetables (cucumbers, cauliflower, round onions, cabbage, eggplant and radish) have been proven to be effective in reducing the occurrence of cancer,” notes Aiso.
Leafy vegetables are comparatively rich in calcium and iron, and can help prevent osteoporosis. Cabbage contains vitamin U, a vitamin well-known for its tumor-reducing effects and for phenols that inhibit cancer. Cabbage is also said to have interferon-like benefits. These same benefits are also recognized in spinach and round onions.
To be continued
(Translated by Roy Mashima)
(The information provided should not be construed as medical advice or instruction. Consult your physician before attempting any new program. Readers who fail to consult appropriate health authorities assume the risk of developing serious medical conditions.)
