BROCCOLI AND ITS HEALTH BENEFITS

Broccoli contains high levels of soluble and insoluble fibers.  It is also rich in Vitamin C.  Aside from Vitamin C, it is also rich in Vitamin A, K, B-complex vitamins, Iron, Phosphorus, and phytonutrients.

Studies revealed that broccoli can potentially help in the prevention of osteoarthritis, protect the skin against ultra-violet rays exposure, reverse diabetic heart damage and reduce bladder cancer risks.

Broccoli is reputed to be one of the healthiest vegetables.  It belongs to the night cruciferous plant group which includes:  Kale, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, rutabaga, cabbage, bok choy, collard greens, and turnips; power house vegetables that are low in calories.

Health Benefits:  Consumption of broccoli decreases the risks of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and overall mortality.  It is believed to promote healthy skin and hair, increased energy and overall lower weight.

Fights Cancer:  Eating a large amount to cruciferous vegetables has been associated with a lower risk of cancer particularly lung and colon cancers.  Studies made revealed that the sulfur content of broccoli which is sulforaphane, the bitter taste found in cruciferous vegetables is responsible for its being cancer fighting.

The substance sulforaphane is currently being studied because of its ability to show down the progress of cancer.  It promising results was shown in pancreatic, melanoma, esophageal and prostate cancers.

Improves Bone Health:  Increase your Vitamin K intake to prevent bone fracture.  A cup chopped broccoli is equal to 92 micrograms of Vitamin K which is over the daily requirement for that Vitamin.  Consuming vitamin K will improve bone health by improving calcium absorption while reducing excretion of calcium through the urinary tract.  Broccoli helps in your daily requirement of calcium up to 43 milligrams in a cup.

Helps keep one younger looking:   Eating broccoli in its natural form (not as a supplement) can help prevent skin damage due to exposure to sunlight and pollution, reduce wrinkles and improve overall skin texture.

People associate Vitamin C with citrus fruits.  Little do they know that broccoli is rich in Vitamin C and a cupful of chopped broccoli provides 81 milligrams of Vitamin C, which is more than what they deed for the day?

Vitamin C plays an important role in the formation of collagen the main support system of the skin.  Broccoli also provides Vitamins A and E which is crucial in maintaining healthy looking skin.

Improves Digestion and Natural Detoxification:  Eating foods like broccoli which is rich in fiber helps prevent constipation, maintain a healthy digestive tract and lower the risk of colon cancer.  Adequate fiber promotes regularity which is crucial for daily excretion of toxins from the body thru the bile and the stool.  Recent studies showed that dietary fiber may also play a role in regulating the immune system and inflammation.

Protection from Chronic Diseases: According to studies conducted by Kentucky University’s Dept. of Internal Medicine and Nutritional Science Program, high fiber intake are associated with significantly lower risks of developing coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and certain gastrointestinal diseases.

Increased fiber intakes has also shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improve insulin sensitivity and enhanced weight loss for obese individuals.