Broccoli

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broccoli

Overview:

Broccoli is an edible green plant in the cabbage family. It is a man-made plant, created from the breeding of cultivated leafy cole crops in the Northern Mediterranean in the 6th century BCE.

Although many claim that they do not like to eat broccoli, there is no denying that it surpasses countless of other healthy foods in health benefits. It is essential to incorporate broccoli into one’s diet.

Benefits:

Broccoli contains glucoraphanin, which the body creates into the anti-cancer compound sulforaphane. Sulforaphane helps dispose of H. pylori in the body, which is a bacterium found to increase the risk of gastric cancer. Broccoli also contains indole-3-carbino, which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-carcinogen that not only hinders the growth of breast, cervical, and prostate cancer, but also increases liver function. Also, sulforaphane also has been so to prevent, or even reverse, damage to blood vessel linings caused by inflammation due to chronic blood sugar problems. It has also been shown to help counteract sun damage on the skin.

Broccoli is also packed with soluble fibers which draws cholesterol out the body. It also has a high amount of potassium which helps maintain a healthy nervous system and optimal brain function.

Anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, kaempferol and isothiocyanates, are found in broccoli. They have shown to lessen the impact of allergy-related substances on our body. Also, omega 3 fatty acids found in broccoli act as an anti-inflammatory.

Phytonutrients, glucoraphanin, gluconasturtiin and glucobrassicin, found in broccoli help the body in detoxification. This includes activation, neutralization and elimination of unwanted contaminants.

Broccoli has an enormous amount of Vitamin C as well as the flavonoids necessary for Vitamin C to recycle effectively. The carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene are also found in broccoli in great amounts. All of these things act as powerful antioxidants. Lutein and zeaxanthin has also been shown to play an important role in eye health. It helps with macular degeneration and cataracts. Leutin also slows down or prevents the thickening of arteries in the human body which will reduce atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.

Vitamin K and calcium is also found in high levels in broccoli. These two things are vital for bone health and the prevention of osteoporosis.

Broccoli has also been shown to be a diet aid. They are a smart carb that is high in fiber. This helps in digestion, constipation prevention, helps maintain low blood sugar, and curbs overeating. It does all of this with a low amount of calories.

Side Effects:

Broccoli is safe in small amounts found in a normal diet. It is also safe for pregnant and breast-feeding women.

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