Health Benefits of Consuming Superfood Broccoli.Superfood broccoli is packed with antioxidants that fight against free radical damage in the body. It also contains a high amount of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and helps prevent colds and flus.
Broccoli is also an excellent source of sulforaphane, an anti-cancer compound. In addition, it is rich in fiber.
Improves Heart Health
Broccoli, which is part of the cabbage family, contains lots of health-promoting phytochemicals and antioxidants. This superfood helps lower the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can increase your risk of heart disease.
This cruciferous veggie is also a good source of folate, potassium, and manganese. These minerals promote healthy heart function, prevent blood clots, and support muscle growth.
The anti-inflammatory effects of broccoli, combined with its ability to fight allergies, boost immunity, and enhance cardiovascular health makes it a great addition to any diet. It is also a rich source of kaempferol, a bioactive compound that supports liver health and may reduce the risk of some types of cancers.
Prevents Cancer
Broccoli, a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, is rich in cancer-fighting compounds such as glucosinolates and sulforaphane. These are chemicals that combat cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
It also contains beneficial short-chain fatty acids that support healthy gut bacteria and intestinal health, as well as immune function. This is thanks to the indigestible fiber of broccoli, which feeds these bacteria and activates them into helpful chemicals that fight off harmful bacteria.
Consuming a diet rich in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, is linked to a lower risk of several types of cancer. Specifically, cabbage, brussels sprouts and broccoli reduce the risk of lung, stomach and colon cancer, according to Jed Fahey, MD, nutritional biochemist at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore.
Boosts Immune System
Broccoli, along with other cruciferous vegetables such as kale and cauliflower, are known to boost the immune system. The nutrient found in these veggies, sulforaphane, switches on an antioxidant pathway in our body, preventing disease by combating free radicals.
Sulforaphane can also restore immunity in aged animals, as reported by the University of California, Los Angeles. Researchers discovered that sulforaphane activates a gene-regulation pathway called Nrf2, which switches on a group of antioxidant genes and enzymes in specific immune cells to combat the injurious effects of free radicals.
Promotes Healthy Bones
Broccoli promotes healthy bones because it contains nutrients such as calcium and vitamin K. This vegetable also helps reduce inflammation, which can lead to bone loss and osteoporosis.
It also has a high level of phytonutrients, such as sulforaphane and kaempferol. Both of these compounds have been shown to boost antioxidant levels in the body and help keep blood vessels strong.
You can strengthen your bones by consuming a balanced diet that includes lots of vegetables and fruits. Regular exercise and avoiding smoking are other ways to keep your bones strong.
Helps Prevent Birth Defects
A diet rich in folic acid, found in broccoli and its related cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower, and kale, can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects, particularly spina bifida. Folate is best absorbed from food, rather than from store-bought supplements, and a diet containing this nutrient during pregnancy is critical to protect baby’s brain and spine development.
Broccoli can also aid in the absorption of iron and calcium, which are essential for babies’ growth and development. Moreover, broccoli is a natural source of Vitamin C which promotes immune health and reduces the chances of getting colds or cough.
Prevents Skin Cancer
Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are rich sources of phytochemicals that help prevent cancer. These phytochemicals include glucosinolates, sulforaphane, and isothiocyanates.
These compounds protect the body against oxidative stress and other cellular damage. They also improve the health of your immune system and slow down aging.
In addition, consuming broccoli will help you get enough vitamin C and sulforaphane to support the synthesis of collagen, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
Eating broccoli regularly will help you prevent cancer, heart disease, and other chronic diseases. It will also help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce inflammation, and promote eye health.