It appears that modern research has confirmed that cabbage is indeed a valuable addition to our diet.

Cabbage belongs to the all important family of cruciferous vegetables which also includes cauliflower, kale, broccoli, collards and Brussels sprouts.

A sturdy, strong and abundant vegetable it is easy to grow, and is almost universally available. Cabbage is low in calories and high in nutrition, a rich source of fibre, its high levels of vitamin A, C and E give it tremendous antioxidant value, while being high in vitamin B helps the nervous system and boosts energy.

Cabbage contains, naturally occurring, compounds which have been linked to lower cancer levels for many years now. Epidemiological studies have found that men living in China and Japan experience a much lower rate of prostate cancer than their American counterparts. Similar data has been uncovered regarding breast cancer rates among women. While the recent studies in New Zealand have found the compounds can reduce the incidence of bladder cancer by more than 50 per cent.

There are indications that cabbage boosts the immune system's ability to produce antibodies while providing high levels of iron and sulphur, minerals that benefit the digestive system and help fight infection.