Eggplant contains various vitamins, proteins, sugars, and minerals. It is especially rich in vitamin P (the highest concentration is found at the junction of the purple skin and the flesh, which is why purple varieties are considered superior). Vitamin P can enhance the adhesion between human cells, improve the fragility of capillaries, and prevent small vessel bleeding. Furthermore, saponins in eggplant have the effect of lowering blood cholesterol. Working in synergy with vitamin P, they can improve the elasticity of capillaries, which is beneficial for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, there are many considerations when pairing eggplant with other ingredients. A good combination can bring therapeutic benefits, while a bad one can be detrimental to your health.
Eggplant + Crab: Harms the digestive system
Consuming eggplant with crab can lead to diarrhea. Crab meat is considered cold-natured in food therapy, and eggplant is sweet, cold, and slippery. Both foods are classified as cold-natured. Eating them together can cause discomfort in the stomach and intestines, and in severe cases, lead to diarrhea. People with a weak digestive system should especially avoid this combination.
The Perfect "Partners" for Eggplant
Eggplant + Bitter Melon: Pairing eggplant with bitter melon makes for an ideal dish for patients with cardiovascular issues. Bitter melon has effects such as relieving fatigue, clearing the mind and brightening the eyes, replenishing qi and strengthening yang, and delaying aging. Eggplant, on the other hand, has properties that relieve pain and invigorate blood, clear heat and reduce swelling, relieve pain and promote urination, prevent blood vessel rupture, lower blood pressure, and stop coughing up blood. The two are well-suited to be eaten together.
Eggplant + Meat: Cooking and eating eggplant with meat can help nourish the blood, stabilize blood pressure, and prevent purpura. Eggplant is rich in vitamin P, which is effective in preventing the rupture of capillaries, thus helping to prevent cardiovascular diseases and also aiding in the prevention of purpura.