Health Benefits of Broccoli
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Nov 04, 2020 • 3 min Read
Not everyone is fond of eating broccoli, but there are many health benefits that you can get from this vegetable. Broccoli ranks as one of the best veggies for it is healthy. It is a good source of fiber and protein and contains iron, potassium, calcium, selenium, and magnesium as well as vitamins A, C, E, K, and a good array of B vitamins including folic acid.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, broccoli has more vitamin C than orange and as much calcium as a glass of milk. One medium-sized stem has three times more fiber than a slice of wheat bread.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of this superfood, from Healthline:
1. Contains Potent Antioxidants That Offer Health-Protective Effects
Broccoli contains multiple potent antioxidants that may support healthy cells and tissues throughout your body.
2. Bioactive Compounds May Contribute to Reduced Inflammation
Broccoli contains various bioactive compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation in your body’s tissues.
3. May Protect Against Certain Types of Cancer
Multiple small studies have shown that eating cruciferous vegetables may protect against certain types of cancer, namely: Breast, Prostate, Gastric/stomach, Colorectal, Renal/kidney, and Bladder.
4. Antioxidants and Fiber May Aid Blood Sugar Control
Eating broccoli may lower blood sugar and improve diabetic control. This is likely related to its antioxidant and fiber content.
5. Support Heart Health in a Variety of Ways
Research indicates that broccoli may help reduce various heart disease risk factors and prevent heart tissue damage.
6. Promotes Healthy Digestion and Reduced Constipation
Eating broccoli may support bowel regularity and healthy gut bacteria.
7. May Slow Mental Decline and Support Healthy Brain Function
Some of the nutrients and bioactive compounds in broccoli may slow mental decline and support healthy brain and nervous tissue function.
8. May Help Slow the Aging Process
Research shows that sulforaphane, a key bioactive compound in broccoli, may have the capacity to slow the biochemical process of aging by increasing the expression of antioxidant genes.
9. Vitamin C Content Supports a Healthy Immune System
Broccoli provides an excellent source of vitamin C, a nutrient known to support a healthy immune response.
10. Support Dental and Oral Health
Broccoli contains a wide array of nutrients, some of which are known to support oral health and prevent dental diseases.
11. Promote Healthy Bones and Joints
Many of the nutrients in broccoli — including calcium, vitamin K, and phosphorus — are necessary for maintaining healthy bones. Additionally, early research indicates that certain antioxidants in broccoli may prevent some joint disorders.
12. Nutrient Content May Support a Healthy Pregnancy
Broccoli contains nutrients vital for certain aspects of fetal development. Folate is particularly important in this regard.
13. Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage
Small animal and human studies showed significantly reduced tumor growth when broccoli extract was used as a protective therapy against UV radiation.
To get the most benefits, you need to choose the freshest broccoli. All parts of the vegetable, including the leaf, flower, and stem are healthy. Steaming broccoli is the best way to retain its nutritional content.
Indeed, broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse full of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Go and take broccoli now!
Stay healthy and safe!
