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A 79p superfood could be the secret weapon in your diet to combat cholesterol and boost gut health, a doctor has claimed. With food prices still on the rise, Brits are on the hunt for cost-effective ways to maintain their wellbeing without breaking the bank.

Health gurus have pinpointed an often-neglected but potent ingredient that won't strain your wallet. Red cabbage, frequently bypassed for more fashionable vegetables, is now recognised as a nutritional titan offering a spectrum of health advantages.

'Overlooked' veg to cut cholesterol

Red cabbage is brimming with fibre beneficial for the gut, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, contributing to better digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and potentially reduced blood pressure. Its striking hue isn't just for aesthetics; it indicates a wealth of polyphenols and anthocyanins, warriors against inflammation and oxidative harm.

"Red cabbage is one of the most underrated superfoods in the supermarket," said Professor Franklin Joseph, a nutrition specialist at Dr Frank's Weight Loss and Health Clinic.

He extolled its virtues: "It's rich in fibre, low in calories and packed with compounds that support gut health, reduce LDL cholesterol and promote a healthy immune system. It's an incredible food - especially when you consider the price."

Prof Joseph also highlighted the prebiotic fibre in red cabbage, which nourishes the beneficial bacteria in the gut, fostering a balanced microbiome - increasingly associated with benefits ranging from digestive health to mental wellbeing.

"Gut health plays a huge role in everything from immunity to mood regulation," he explained. "Adding a few spoonfuls of raw or lightly cooked red cabbage to your meals is a simple way to support that."

Plenty of benefits for little money

Despite the humble price tag, red cabbage offers impressive health perks.

Not only beneficial for gut health, red cabbage boasts potent sulforaphane-like compounds, akin to those found in broccoli, hailed for their cancer risk-reducing potential.

"It's not just about fibre or digestion," Prof Joseph said. "Red cabbage supports detox pathways in the liver, helps lower inflammation, and has even been linked to improved heart health thanks to its antioxidant profile."

Indeed, picking up a red cabbage from the local supermarket will set consumers back around 79p - a small price for substantial nutritional benefits.

"In a time when many people feel priced out of healthy eating, red cabbage proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to eat for longevity," Prof Joseph said.

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