Fall Foods – White Vegetables
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, autumn is a time for eating white vegetables. White vegetables contain isothiocyanates, which support the immune system and protects against the development of various ailments.
- Cauliflower: Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable, and belongs to the same family of plants as that of broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Cauliflower possesses high concentrations of fiber, vitamins C and B6, and folate. Along with the presence of isothiocyanates, cauliflower also has a high concentration of glucosinolates, which are key to cauliflower’s anti-cancer properties. Along with treating low immune function, it is helpful to incorporate cauliflower into the diet when treating sinus problems, constipation, and conditions of the skin such as warts.
- Cabbage: Cabbage, like cauliflower, is a cruciferous vegetable, and therefore possesses many of the same healing and nutritional properties. Cabbage is commonly associated with its high concentrations of vitamin C. It also contains the amino acid glutamine, which has been revealed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Along with treating immune-related conditions such as cold and flu, cabbage can also help anyone looking to treat acne, allergies, hives, constipation, arthritis, bronchitis, and yeast overgrowth.
- Turnips: Turnips are a root vegetable that are typically grown in temperate climates. Turnips are packed with vitamin C. And turnip greens contain vitamins A and K as well as folate, calcium, and lutein. Turnips treat immune-related conditions such as bronchitis, and other conditions such as incontinence, flatulence, and symptoms of jet lag. Lightly steam the greens for a healthy side dish. As for the bulb, cut and sauté or boil and mash.
- Garlic: Garlic is a pungent, spicy herb that has bulbs, leaves, stems, and flowers that are edible. It is generally anti-bacterial in nature, and is used as an antiseptic and a remedy for infections. It is used for digestive disorders and as a treatment for intestinal worms. It is also used to prevent heart disease, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, regulate blood sugar levels, prevent diabetes-related conditions, treat allergies, reduce arthritis, counteract bone loss, and to treat ailments related to cancer.
As we get into the cooler months of autumn, there is an abundance of white vegetables to enjoy. So stay healthy and Stock up! With all that being said, the most important thing is to enjoy eating new foods and preparing them in new ways. Go forth and explore the abundance of food available to enjoy!
