Lettuce and Cabbage: Which is more Nutritious? Using it Correctly is Pointless. An Official Nutritionist Responds!

Though both lettuce and cabbage are green vegetables with similar appearances, do you know the differences between them? A certified dietitian will describe how to utilize them appropriately in this post based on the nutritional variations between the two.

What is the difference between lettuce and cabbage?

Although lettuce and cabbage are both leafy vegetables, there are distinct differences in taste. Lettuce is often eaten raw in salads, but it has a bitter taste. When you cut a lettuce stem, a white liquid comes out, which is a substance called lactucopicrin, which is the bitter component of lettuce. Cabbage, on the other hand, can be eaten raw or cooked, has a sweet taste, can be used in a wider range of ways than lettuce, and is used in various dishes.

If you compare the main nutrients per 100g, you will see the following differences.

There is not much difference between lettuce and cabbage, but cabbage is slightly higher in nutrients. Lettuce is made up of 95% water. Cabbage is also over 90% water, but it is slightly less than lettuce, which is why there is such a difference. Also, when you say lettuce, some people may imagine that it is rich in dietary fiber, as it is said to be equivalent to XX pieces of dietary fiber lettuce. However, the content is not very high, and in fact, it can be said to be lower than that of cabbage.

What are the characteristic nutrients of cabbage?

The notable nutrients in cabbage are calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K. Calcium is a typical nutrient essential for the formation of bones and teeth. However, calcium alone cannot build bones; it requires the help of various nutrients. Magnesium is one of the nutrients that helps absorb calcium. Lettuce and cabbage contains a good balance of calcium and magnesium, which are necessary for building bones efficiently. Vitamin K also helps absorb calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. Another characteristic nutrient is a nutrient called cabezon. It is also called vitamin U because it has a vitamin-like effect, and is attracting attention as an ingredient that maintains stomach health.

What are the characteristic nutrients of lettuce?

Lettuce contains 10 times more beta-carotene than cabbage. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body and is known to maintain skin and eye health and to have antioxidant effects. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, so it goes well with oil and is resistant to heat. There are many types of lettuce, including leaf lettuce and ruffled lettuce, but it is said that the type with open leaves is generally more nutritious.

Which is more nutritious, lettuce and cabbage?

Looking at the relative amounts of nutrients, cabbage can be said to be more nutritious. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and contains a unique nutrient called cabbage, so it is recommended when you want to keep your stomach healthy. On the other hand, lettuce contains more beta-carotene than cabbage and is rich in nutrients essential for health and beauty. Each has its own merits, so it’s good to be able to use them depending on your preference and purpose.

Can I substitute lettuce and cabbage?

Although lettuce and cabbage have different nutritional values ​​and tastes, they have similar crunchy textures and can be substituted. Although lettuce is often eaten raw, it is also suitable for cooking as it is rich in beta-carotene, which is resistant to heat. If you overcook it, it will lose its texture, so add it at the end of cooking and give it a quick stir-fry. As you know, cabbage can be eaten raw or heated, so it would be nice to use it depending on the purpose and situation, such as its nutritional value and ease of availability.

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