Health Benefits of Broccoli

The health benefits of broccoli are undisputed. According to the American Cancer Society broccoli health benefits can be enjoyed by regular consumption, at least 3 times a week, of a 2-cup portion of raw or cooked broccoli.

Raw or lightly steamed broccoli is great in a salad or side dish and there’s no easier way to consume a portion of broccoli than to have a ready-prepared, healthy broccoli soup on hand.

The benefits of broccoli include:

Protection against heart disease and diabetes:

Lutein works to keep arteries clear to help prevent stroke, whilst chromium helps regulate blood sugar and control diabetes. Potassium helps reduce high blood pressure.

In addition, the fiber content of broccoli helps lower cholesterol as it binds together with bile acids in the colon, which are then excreted along with excess cholesterol.

Protection against some cancers: (especially prostate, breast, ovarian, bladder and colon)

Broccoli holds a trio of anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and detoxification qualities, which together hold the key to cancer-protection.

When the body is overloaded with potential toxins the inflammatory system takes over in a quest to protect our bodies from potential damage. Long term this puts us at risk for serious health problems, including the development of cancer. When broccoli is eaten regularly, glucosinolates help to control this inflammation. Glucosinates are phytonutrients which are converted in the body into isothiocyanates (ITCs), particularly sulforaphane.

Omega 3 fat, also helps regulate the inflammatory system. Although broccoli is not rich source of omega 3, it still provides an adequate amount of important anti-inflammatory benefits.

Broccoli also has anti-inflammatory effects due to the rich supply of the phytonutrient kaempferol, which fights especially against over-exposure to allergy related substances.

Vitamin C and amino acids also support the detoxification process by promoting elimination of free radicals and toxics such as uric acid from the body

Promotes strong immune system: Vitamin C

Promotes healthy eyesight: Vitamin A (betacarotene) content in broccoli helps prevent macular degeneration and cataracts

Promotes healthy digestion:

As a high fiber food, containing equal amounts of soluble and non-soluble fiber, broccoli helps regulate the speed and consistency of food as it passes through the digestive tract, thus helping to relieve constipation

The glucosinolate sulforaphane also helps prevent bacterial overgrowth in the stomach lining.

Prevent anemia: iron

Promotes healthy bones and joints Protection against osteoporosis is provided by the calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron, phosphorous found in broccoli

Reduced risk of Alzheimer’s Disease: folate


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