Yao Choy is a dark green vegetable that is frequently used in Asian cuisine. This vegetable has been used for its nutritional and medicinal benefits for centuries. The nutritional benefits of Yao Choy include its ability to improve bone health, enhance the immune system, and reduce inflammation in the body. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the health and anti-inflammatory benefits of Yao Choy.
Nutritional Values of Yao Choy
One cup (70 grams) of Yao Choy contains the following nutrients:
- Calories: 13
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Fiber: 1.5 grams
- Protein: 1.7 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Vitamin A: 75% of the RDI (Recommended Daily Intake)
- Vitamin C: 119% of the RDI
- Vitamin K: 356% of the RDI
- Calcium: 9% of the RDI
- Iron: 5% of the RDI
- Folate: 17% of the RDI
Yao Choy is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Additionally, it is a good source of calcium, iron, and folate.
Bone Health Effects and Nutritional Values
Yao Choy is an excellent source of vitamin K, which plays a critical role in bone health. Vitamin K works in conjunction with calcium to promote bone health, and it helps to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. One cup of Yao Choy contains 356% of the RDI for vitamin K, making it an ideal vegetable to promote bone health.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Yao Choy
Inflammation is a natural process in the body that helps to fight off infections and repair damaged tissue. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a range of health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. One of the significant benefits of Yao Choy is its ability to reduce inflammation in the body.
Yao Choy is a rich source of antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to inflammation. Additionally, Yao Choy contains phytonutrients, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Immune System Effects
Another health benefit of Yao Choy is its ability to enhance the immune system. The high levels of vitamin C in Yao Choy help to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are essential for a strong immune system. Additionally, the antioxidants in Yao Choy help to protect the immune system from free radical damage.
Food Combining Information
To get the most out of Yao Choy’s nutritional benefits, it is essential to combine it with other foods that complement its nutrient profile. Yao Choy combines well with foods that are rich in vitamin D, such as eggs and fatty fish. The vitamin D in these foods helps to enhance the absorption of calcium, which is critical for bone health.
Anti-Inflammatory Yao Choy Smoothie Recipe
For a delicious and nutritious anti-inflammatory smoothie, try this recipe:
- 1/2 cup of fresh Yao Choy
- 1 cup of blueberries
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of ginger
- 1 teaspoon of chia seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric
Blend all ingredients together in a blender until smooth. This smoothie is packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and immune-boosting nutrients.
If you love anti-inflammatory fruits check out the rest of our fruits section here, or pop over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section where you can find powerful goodness to add to any autoimmune smoothie.
Thank you for reading, and we hope you enjoyed learning about the many health benefits of Yao Choy!