Some of your favorite dishes in the continental and in the Chinese cuisines contain broccoli. Broccoli is beneficial for health and so eating broccoli in a healthier way would give you the maximum health benefits. For example, you can include Broccoli in your salad. Taking the vegetable in its raw form would ensure better intake of the nutrients.
Broccoli relates closely with cabbage and cauliflower and it is a member of the Italica Cultivar group of Brassicaceae family. It falls under the category of cruciferous vegetables which show anti-carcinogenic properties. This is the reason why health organizations recommend the intake of these vegetables for several times every week.
Let's have a look at the various health benefits of broccoli:
- Fights Cancer: Broccoli contains two phytochemicals called indoles and isothiocyanates. These phytochemicals boosts the activities of a group of enzymes which destroy the carcinogenic agents. Strong anti-cancer agents like glucoraphanin, beta-carotene, diindolylmethane, selenium and other nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, potassium, zinc and certain amino acids prevent the growth of cancerous cells in the breast, uterus, prostate gland, colon, kidney, liver and lungs. Broccoli, which removes extra estrogen from the body, is specifically important for the treatment and prevention of breast and uterine cancer.
- Aids in Detoxification: Broccoli derives its detoxification properties due to the presence of sulphur, Vitamin C and certain amino acids. It frees the body from free radicals and toxins such as uric acid. This in turn, protects the body from toxin-related ailments like boils, itches, arthritis, renal calculi, rashes, rheumatism, gout and eczema.
- Cures Stomach Disorders: Constipation is the main cause behind all stomach disorders and broccoli effectively treats constipation due to the presence of fibers in it. The fiber drives out the toxins from the digestive tract. Acidity is another concern which is addressed well by the magnesium and vitamins present in Broccoli. They also aid in the proper digestion and absorption of nutrients from the food.
- Enhances Skin Health: Broccoli is a storehouse of vitamins and this implies that it is extremely beneficial for skin. Vitamin C, beta-carotene and other members of the Vitamin B complex present in Broccoli work together to contribute to a glowing skin. Vitamin E, which adds shine to the skin and causes a revival of the skin tissues, is also found in Broccoli. Other nutrients that add to the skin health include Vitamin A and K, amino acids, folate and Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Fights Heart Problems: The fiber content in broccoli and the presence of Omega-3 fatty acids, beta-carotene and other vitamins, bring down the levels of bad cholesterol apart from regulating the blood pressure. These activities allow the heart to function properly.
- Aids in Eye Care: Zeaxanthin is the main ingredient in Broccoli which is beneficial for eye health. Other nutrients with similar functions include Vitamin A, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Phosphorus and Beta-carotene. These nutrients help in the repair of the damages caused due to UV radiations apart from preventing eye conditions like Macular degeneration and cataract.
- Boosts Immunity: Broccoli gets its immunity strengthening properties on account of the presence of Vitamin c, beta-carotene, selenium, zinc, phosphorus and copper.
- Contributes Towards Bone Health: Children, old people and pregnant or lactating mothers should include Broccoli in their diet because they are susceptible to calcium deficiency which might cause weakening of the bones and teeth and osteoporosis. Broccoli contributes toward bone health due to the presence of minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc.
- Supports Pregnancy: Pregnant women need vital nutrients to maintain good health of the growing fetus. Broccoli contains all the vital nutrients required by a pregnant woman- antioxidants, calcium, protein, vitamins, detoxifiers, phosphorus and iron. Further, most pregnant women suffer from constipation. The fibers present in Broccoli combats this condition.
- Maintains Blood Sugar Levels: Broccoli contains the mineral called chromium which aids in the proper functioning of the insulin hormone. This way, it regulates blood sugar levels.
- Prevents Anemia: Anemia is caused due to iron deficiency. Broccoli is a good source of iron and so it can be used as an effective remedy for anemia.
Adding Broccoli into your diet would mean adding loads of nutrients to your intakes. And you don't need to think twice because broccoli tastes good and you can prepare tasty dishes with it. Go through some recipe books or search online to prepare mouthwatering dishes with Broccoli.
