Broccoli, a green vegetable, belongs to the Brassicaceae family (also called Cruciferae), along with cabbage and cauliflower. This much hated cruciferous vegetable has more protein than meat, which is about 4.5 gms per 30 calories. Broccoli has substantial amounts of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, dietary fibre, potassium, selenium, manganese, phosphorus and tryptophan. Broccoli is a rich source of phytonutrient glucosinolates, flavonoids, and antioxidant that boost your health in a great way.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF BROCCOLI

Wonder Drug For Cancer

Anti-cancerin broccoli like glucoraphanin, diindolylmethane, beta-carotene, selenium and certain amino acids proved to be a natural defense against several types of cancer including breast, uterus, prostate, lungs, colon, liver, kidneys, and intestines. Specifically, broccoli was found to be beneficial for breast cancer and uterine cancer, as it removes estrogen from the body.

Ultimate Skin Care

Power packed with antioxidants (Vitamin C & E), broccoli keeps your skin healthy, renews & repairs the skin from free radical damage. It adds beauty, promotes a natural glow, keeps your skin young, and acts as an anti-ageing agent. Sulforaphane - a compound found in broccoli - is very effective at inhibiting cancer-causing pathways, and in blocking sunburns.

Broccoli is abundantly rich in chromium & helps in proper functioning of insulin and regulates the blood glucose levels.

Aids Digestive System

A rich source of fibre, broccoli helps to relieve constipation. The magnesium and the vitamins in broccoli cures acidity, helps in proper digestion and reduces inflammation, soothing the stomach.

Improves Bone Health

Broccoli is filled with Vitamin K; improves bone health by improving calcium absorption and reduces urinary excretion of calcium.

Healthy Heart

Researchers at the Imperial College, London found that sulforaphane may be able to actually prevent inflammation in specific arterial areas that are termed high risk.

Broccoli is easy to prepare, but be warned! Boiling reduces the levels of sulforaphane in broccoli, with losses of 20-30% after 5 minutes, 40-50% after 10 minutes, and 77% after thirty minutes. However, steaming, microwaving, and stir frying seemed to have no significant effect on the essential compounds that makes broccoli a nutrient powerhouse.

Boosts Immunity

Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient known for its immune-boosting properties. Regular consumption of broccoli can help strengthen the immune system, making the body more resilient against infections and illnesses.

Supports Skin Health

The presence of antioxidants, such as vitamins A and E, in broccoli contributes to healthy and radiant skin. These antioxidants help combat free radicals, reducing the signs of aging and promoting a youthful complexion.

Enhances Vision Health

Broccoli contains carotenoids, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are associated with maintaining healthy eyesight. These compounds contribute to reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and other vision-related issues.

References

Broccoli: A Multi-Faceted Vegetable for Health: An In-Depth Review of Its Nutritional Attributes, Antimicrobial Abilities, and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Rahamat Unissa Syed,1,2,* Sivakumar Sivagurunathan Moni,3 Mohammed Khaled Bin Break,2,4 Weam M. A. Khojali,2,4,5 Mohammed Jafar,6 Maali D. Alshammari,4 Karim Abdelsalam,7 Soha Taymour,7 Khetam Saad Mutni Alreshidi,8 Manal Mohamed Elhassan Taha,9 and Syam Mohan9,10,11, Juliana Garcia, Academic Editor

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10376324/

Disclaimer:

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.