79p Superfood: Red Cabbage That Could Lower Cholesterol, Cut Blood Pressure, and Boost Your Gut
Health budgets are tightening as grocery prices rise. Against this backdrop, one penny-priced vegetable is being hailed as a potential game changer for long-term health. A whole red cabbage—about 79p—could help lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and boost gut health without draining your wallet. It’s a striking reminder that affordable choices can support longevity.
In This Article:
Red Cabbage: A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse Packed with Fibre and Polyphenols
Red cabbage is a budget-friendly powerhouse. It’s packed with gut-friendly fibre, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Its striking color signals elevated levels of polyphenols and anthocyanins, which help fight inflammation and oxidative damage. Nutrition experts call it one of the most underrated supermarket staples. "Red cabbage is one of the most underrated superfoods in the supermarket. 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 Franklin Joseph
How It Supports Gut Health—and Mood
Prebiotic fibre nourishes the beneficial bacteria in your digestive system, helping to keep your gut microbiome balanced. That balance is increasingly linked to digestion and mental wellbeing. "Gut health plays a huge role in everything from immunity to mood regulation," Prof Joseph notes. "Adding a few spoonfuls of raw or lightly cooked red cabbage to your meals is a simple way to support that."
More Than Digestion: Detox, Inflammation, and Heart Health
Red cabbage also contains sulforaphane-like compounds—similar to those found in broccoli—that may help lower the risk of certain cancers. "It's not just about fibre or digestion. 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," Prof Joseph adds.
Longevity on a Budget: How to Use Red Cabbage Daily
A whole red cabbage typically costs around 79p at supermarkets such as Sainsbury's and Tesco, making it one of the most cost-effective nutrition upgrades you can make. "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." Practical tip: add a few spoonfuls of raw or lightly cooked red cabbage to your meals to support gut health and overall wellness.
