Understanding Nasunin: The Powerful Antioxidant in Eggplant and Its Health Benefits on the Brain

Nasunin, found in the peels of eggplants, is a powerhouse antioxidant that is considered an anthocyanin known for its ability to help protect cells by scavenging for free radicals and chelating iron. It also has antiangiogenic properties, meaning it can prevent the growth of blood vessels in harmful cells. In general, anthocyanins are characterized by their color of red, purple, and blue in various kinds of produce.

This particular antioxidant may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline by protecting brain cell membranes from damage from free radicals. It can also help with removing waste products from cells and allowing nutrients in through neuronal communication, and increasing blood flow to the brain. This, in total, can help protect the brain from cognitive decline and help reduce the chance of memory loss and other learning problems during older age.

The Potential Brain Health Benefits of Nasunin

Cognitive Function: Enhancing Memory and Learning

Because of nasunin’s ability to protect brain cells through antioxidant activity, it is believed that it may help enhance memory and learning by protecting neuronal communications and cell membrane integrity (keeping brain cells strong and intact).

Mood and Mental Well-being: Exploring Emerging Research

Additionally, recent research has indicated that high intakes of anthocyanins like nasunin can impact mood and mental well-being by improving short-term memory, verbal learning and working memory, executive function, visual-spatial function, as well as attention and focus.

How Eggplant Delivers Nasunin: Maximizing Intake

Nasunin Concentration in Eggplant: Skin vs. Flesh

As previously mentioned, nasunin and other anthocyanins are highly concentrated in the skin of eggplant, where there is a blue/purple/red hue present, suggesting a higher ratio is found in the peel than in the flesh of the eggplant.

Cooking Methods: Does Heat Affect Nasunin Levels?

Cooking any produce at higher temperatures can impact the levels of phytochemicals found in the plant, resulting in the loss of antioxidants that could be potentially consumed. When cooking plants like eggplant, it is best to cook at lower temperatures and avoid overcooking to prevent excess losses of antioxidants. For best results, avoid frying. If steaming, do not overcook. Making it fork-tender but allowing the skin to retain some stiffness will protect significant nasunin losses in the skin.

Different Eggplant Varieties: Nasunin Content Variation

There are varying types of eggplants- purple and white varieties. Because nasunin is an anthocyanin, it will be found in purple eggplants. A recent study identified nasunin concentrations of 709 mg/100 g in purple eggplants and low amounts, approximately 378 mg/100 g in white small eggplant peels.

Incorporating Eggplant into a Brain-Boosting Diet

Eggplant is a very versatile vegetable that can be eaten alone or used in dishes. A popular use for eggplant is eggplant parmesan. However, to make this dish more nourishing, avoid frying the eggplant before assembling the dish. Instead, bread and bake the eggplant until slightly crisp. You can also grill or sauté eggplant with a small amount of oil and seasonings as a side dish to lean protein or as an addition to a summer salad.  

A great way to eat more eggplant is to pair it with other Mediterranean-style foods like tomatoes, olives, olive oil, and basil. These foods also provide a great array of antioxidants and heart-healthy fats that support brain health.

The ideal portion size of eggplant is approximately 1 cup of diced or cubed cooked eggplant or a ½ medium-sized eggplant. Keep in mind that the method of cooking will impact the amount of nasunin present in the dish.

The Future of Nasunin Research: Potential Therapeutic Applications

Currently, there is more emerging research on nasunin and its impact on neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Most of these studies are in early stages, and further studies involving human subjects are needed to confirm findings. In general, research has concluded that consuming a diet rich in plant-based foods is crucial for overall health. Therefore, consuming eggplant as part of a healthy, balanced diet is a great way to boost brain health and protect your body from the adverse effects of aging.  

There is little evidence currently to support supplemental nasunin. The best way to incorporate nasunin in your diet is by consuming eggplant regularly. Try incorporating eggplant into your diet at least once a week.

Talk with a registered dietitian to learn more about the benefits of antioxidants like nasunin and ways to incorporate eggplant into your diet!

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