Lifestyle Desk – To adopt a healthy lifestyle, people include more and more vegetables in their diet. Many people believe that by eating vegetables raw, their nutrients are better available to the body. However, this does not apply to every vegetable. There are some vegetables which when eaten raw can cause digestive problems or some of the natural elements present in them can have a negative effect on the body. In such a situation, eating these vegetables lightly cooked is considered safer and beneficial. Let us know about those vegetables which should be avoided when eaten raw.
Mushrooms are rich in nutrients, but not all types of mushrooms are suitable for eating raw. Raw mushrooms contain some natural compounds that can cause problems like stomach ache, gas, indigestion and flatulence in some people. Additionally, the cooking process reduces these elements to a great extent, making the mushroom safer and easily digestible. Therefore, it is always considered better to consume mushrooms after cooking them thoroughly.
Cauliflower is often used raw in salads, but consuming it in excess can affect the digestive system. The body has to work harder to digest the fiber and some special compounds present in it. This can cause problems like gas, flatulence and discomfort. If you already have digestive problems, then eating cauliflower lightly steamed or as a vegetable can be more beneficial.
It is not advisable to eat brinjal raw. It naturally contains a compound called solanine, which can cause problems like stomach upset, nausea, vomiting or allergies in some people. Although this element does not cause much harm in normal quantities, cooking brinjal reduces its quantity and makes it safer for the body. Besides, brinjal is easily digested after cooking.
Potato is included in those vegetables which should never be eaten raw. Raw potatoes contain a natural toxic compound called solanine, which can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and other digestive problems. Apart from this, the starch present in raw potatoes is also difficult for the body to digest. This is the reason why eating raw potatoes can increase problems like gas and flatulence. Potatoes should always be eaten boiled, roasted or cooked.
Spinach is considered a superfood because it contains iron, calcium and many essential vitamins. But raw spinach contains high amount of oxalates, which can affect the absorption of calcium and iron in the body. Especially people who have kidney stone problem, they should avoid consuming excess raw spinach. Cooking spinach lightly can reduce the amount of oxalates and its nutrients can also be available to the body in a better way.
