Broccoli and Health

Broccoli is known as a superfood for its nutritional value and disease fighting properties. Broccoli originated in Italy where it was developed from wild cabbage This green vegetable is packed with phytochemicals and antioxidants and supplies loads of nutrients for little calories, such as fiber, B vitamins, vitamins C, A K, and the mineral iron. Broccoli is also low in carbohydrates, fat-free and has 4.2 g of protein per serving.

Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables, here are some reasons why we should include this superfood on top of our shopping list!

Cancer – Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable and may be protective against stomach and intestinal cancers. Broccoli may also help prevent hormone-related cancers such as breast and prostate cancer. In addition beta-carotene in broccoli converts into vitamin A within the body, which may also aid in cancer prevention

Reduce cholesterol – the soluble fiber in the vegetable binds with the cholesterol in the blood thus reducing bad cholesterol 

Detoxification – helps the body in detoxification from activation to neutralization and elimination of contaminants, thus help in cancer prevention. Broccoli’s Isothiocyanates, including sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol boost detoxifying enzymes and act as antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress 

Heart – broccoli Reduces Risk of Cardiovascular Disease and promotes heart health by keeping blood vessels strong

Digestion – aids in digestion because of high fiber, 1 gram of fiber per 10 calories and keeps your stomach lining healthy

Anti-inflammatory – may help people suffering from arthritis because broccoli may regulate inflammation. Broccoli has also been recognized for its ability to combat osteoarthritis 

Immune system – the phytochemicals in broccoli aid the immune system thus protecting your from diseases

Eye health – because this superfood contains lutein, studies have shown that lutein helps prevent cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Broccoli also contains glucoraphanin that helps repair aging process or too much sun exposure

Depression – this green superfood also has good source of the mood-boosting B vitamin and folate

Weight loss – this delicious green vegetable is low in calories, low in starch, high in fiber and has zero fat. Including this superfood is an excellent choice for weight loss diet

WHICH IS BETTER COOKED, STEAMED OR RAW

Foods retain their nutritional benefits when they are only lightly cooked, and this applies especially to fruits and vegetables. Steaming or stir-frying will retain most of its nutrients, but boiling broccoli can damage the effects of the food’s good, cancer-fighting enzymes. This means eating broccoli raw or lightly steamed is the best choice if you are looking to gain the health benefits from this green superfood

Search onlyglutenfreerecipes.com for easy recipes to include broccoli into your diet.

References: American Cancer Society, National Academy of Sciences of the USA, Harward University of Public Health, American Insititute of Cancer Research, Imperial College London, University of Warwick

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to offer medical advice