Eating the 79p ‘superfood’ can help to support gut health, reduce cholesterol and promote a healthy immune system.
A doctor has discussed a “superfood” that can cut cholesterol, lower blood pressure and boost gut health – and it costs just 79p. With grocery bills soaring, countless people are hunting for budget-friendly methods to maintain their wellbeing without breaking the bank.
Health experts say one of the most potent – yet underrated – ingredients for enhancing long-term wellness can be snapped up for under £1. Red cabbage is being hailed as a nutritional powerhouse with a unique blend of benefits.
Packed with gut-friendly fibre, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, red cabbage has been connected to better digestion, decreased cholesterol, and even reduced blood pressure. Its striking hue isn’t merely decorative – it signals elevated polyphenol and anthocyanin levels, which combat inflammation and oxidative damage.
Professor Franklin Joseph, nutrition specialist at Dr Frank’s Weight Loss and Health Clinic, explained: “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 Joseph said that its prebiotic fibre nourishes beneficial bacteria in your digestive system, supporting a balanced microbiome – something increasingly connected to everything from digestion to mental wellbeing. He continued: “Gut health plays a huge role in everything from immunity to mood regulation.
“Adding a few spoonfuls of raw or lightly cooked red cabbage to your meals is a simple way to support that.”
In addition to nourishing the gut, red cabbage boasts sulforaphane-like compounds – akin to those found in broccoli – which are thought to help lower the risk of certain cancers.
Prof Joseph added: “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.”
A whole red cabbage typically sets you back around 79p at supermarkets including Sainsbury’s and Tesco – making it one of the most cost-effective nutrition upgrades you can make.
The expert added: “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.”