Health Benefits of Broccoli

When it comes to great-tasting nutrition, broccoli is an all-star food with many health benefits. While low in calories, broccoli is rich in many essential vitamins and minerals, in addition to fiber.
Broccoli belongs to a family of vegetables called cruciferous vegetables and its close relatives include brussel sprouts, cauliflower, and cabbage. Broccoli is high in sulforophane, a sulfur-containing compound present in cruciferous vegetables. Sulforophane has anti-cancer properties and may promote the elimination of potential carcinogens from the body. Studies suggest that a diet rich in cruciferous vegetables may reduce the risk of some cancers, especially stomach and lung cancers.
As if that's not enough, a cup of cooked broccoli offers as much vitamin C as an orange, and is very rich in beta-carotene. Broccoli contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc too. It is also high in fiber and low in calories.

Broccoli Nutrients

Broccoli nutrients provide many health benefits. It is a great source of vitamins K, A, and C, in addition to fiber, potassium, folate, and lutein.
Vitamin K – essential for the functioning of many proteins involved in blood clotting
Vitamin A – helps vision and is required for the immune system and production of red blood cells.
Vitamin C – builds collagen, which forms body tissue and bone, and helps cuts and wounds heal. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and protects the body from damaging free radicals.
Fiber – diets high in fiber promote digestive health. A high fiber intake can also help lower cholesterol.
Potassium – a mineral and electrolyte that is essential for the function of nerves and heart contraction.
Folate – is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells in the body.
Lutein - may slow progression of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
By including broccoli in your diet regularly you may reduce and prevent ailments like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and it may help lower blood cholesterol.