How can broccoli help your health?
It was during the Sixties that a researcher at the John Hopkins University announced the discovery of a compound found in broccoli that not only prevented the development of tumours by 60 per cent in the studied group, it also reduced the size of tumours that did develop by 75 per cent.
Since then, there have been numerous other findings which indicate just how healthy the vegetable is for you.
Not only does broccoli contain antioxidants including vitamin C but it’s a particularly good source of folate – naturally occurring folic acid. Increasing your intake of folic acid is thought to be a major benefit in preventing heart disease.
While broccoli doesn't provide as much calcium as a glass of milk, it is a great source of calcium which can help control blood pressure and build strong bones.
Broccoli also contains an antioxidant called lutein that can delay the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This affects 10 per cent of people over 60 and is a major cause of impaired vision and blindness.
Indeed, broccoli and its cruciferous sidekicks are among the most powerful weapons in our dietary arsenal against cancer. . In addition, broccoli also boosts the immune system, lowers the incidence of cataracts, supports cardiovascular health, builds bones, and fights birth defects.
Broccoli has long been touted as one of the healthiest veggies because of its nutritional makeup and it’s not hard to see why with the information listed above.
Broccoli is one of the most nutrient-dense foods known; it offers an incredibly high level of nutrition for a very low caloric cost; so, just exactly how much of it are you going to be eating this week?
Femalefirst Taryn Davies
Tagged in Health Cancer Nutrition Diet Healthy eating Super Food Vitamins