broccoli is a green vegetable which looks like a miniature tree. It belongs to the plant species known as Brassica oleracea. It is closely related to the cabbagethe cabbage of Brusselsthe cabbage curly and the cauliflowerall edible plants collectively called cruciferous vegetables.
There are three main varieties of broccoli:
- Calabrese Broccoli
- broccoli sprouts
- Purple cauliflower: Despite its name, a type of broccoli.
Broccoli is an inexhaustible source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.
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These are the wonderful benefits and properties of Broccoli
One of the biggest advantages of broccoli is its content of nutrients. It is loaded with a wide range of vitamins, minerals, fiber and other bioactive compounds.
One cup (91 grams) of raw broccoli (1):
broccoli can be eaten cooked or raw; both are perfectly healthy but They provide different nutrient profiles.
Different cooking methods, such as boilheat in microwave, fry Y steam cooking, alter the nutrient composition of the vegetablein particular by reducing the vitamin Cas well as the protein soluble and the sugar.
Still, raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C. Just a half cup (78 grams) of cooked broccoli provides the 84% of the daily reference intake.
In addition the content of broccoli antioxidants may be one of its main health benefits.
antioxidants are molecules that inhibit or neutralize cell damage caused by free radicals. This can cause a reduction in inflammation and a protective effect of health in general.
Broccoli has high levels of glucoraphanina compound that is converted into a powerful antioxidant called sulforaphane during digestion.
Broccoli also contains measurable amounts of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which can prevent oxidative stress and metabolism. cell damage in the eyes
Broccoli and Cancer
Multiple studies have shown that eating cruciferous vegetables may protect against certain types of canceramong them:
- Mother
- Prostate
- gastric / stomach
- renal / kidney
- Bladder
Although these data are encouraging, are not strong enough to make definitive health claims regarding broccoli’s role in cancer treatment or prevention.
Broccoli and Diabetes
eat broccoli may contribute to better blood sugar control in people with diabetes. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, it may be related to the antioxidant content of broccoli.
A study in humans showed a significant decrease in insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes who consumed broccoli sprouts daily for one month.
Interestingly, a study in animals revealed a decrease in blood sugar in addition to a reduction in pancreatic cell damage in diabetic rats fed broccoli extract.
Broccoli is also a good source of fiber. Some research indicates that a Higher dietary fiber intake is associated with lower blood sugar and better diabetes control.
Broccoli and the Heart
Several studies indicate that broccoli can promote heart health in various ways. It is known that elevated levels of LDL cholesterol «bad» and triglycerides are the main risk factors for heart disease. Broccoli can play a role in improving these markers.
One study noted a significant reduction in triglycerides and «bad» LDL cholesterol«, as well as increased levels of «good» HDL cholesterol in people who were treated with a supplement for outbreaks of powdered broccoli
Some research also rsupport the notion that specific antioxidants in broccoli may reduce the overall risk of heart attack.
broccoli for digestion
broccoli is yummy in fiber and antioxidantswhich can support the healthy bowel function and digestive health.
The bowel regularity and a strong community of healthy bacteria within your colon are two vital components for digestive health. Eating foods rich in fiber and antioxidants like broccoli may play a role in maintaining healthy bowel function.
Broccoli and mental health
Some of the nutrients and compounds bioactive of broccoli can slow mental decline and support healthy function of brain and nerve tissue.
A study of 960 older adults revealed that a daily serving of dark green vegetableslike broccoli, can help resist mental decline associated with aging.
Broccoli and aging
The aging process is largely attributed to oxidative stress and to reduced metabolic function throughout their lives.
Although aging is an unavoidable natural process, diet quality is thought to be an important factor in determining gene expression and the development of age-related diseases.
Research shows that sulforaphane may have the ability to slow the biochemical process of aging by increasing the expression of antioxidant genes.
How to prepare broccoli? Great tips for cooking
Some would say broccoli is boring, but that’s far from the truth. broccoli is juicy, fresh, firm and must be cooked well. Putting broccoli in boiling water breaks down its cells faster than other cooking methods. It also creates a strange smell. So if you don’t have much time, dice the broccoli, put olive oil and salt on it and put it in the oven, you can also roast, skip or it can be baked.
Let’s review some preparation ideas:
baked broccoli
Whipped broccoli with creamy fresh cheese for easy, no-fuss baking. A delicious, creamy, cheesy meal option to prepare at home. Kids would never know how much healthy veggies were in this easy broccoli recipe!
Broccoli Salad with French Dressing
Crispy broccoli florets, celery, carrots, and mixed bell peppers and drizzled with a French dressing in this refreshing salad.
Grilled Buttermilk Chicken with Broccoli
Chicken in mild buttermilk is cooked to perfection and served with chili and garlic saucealmond flakes and a large portion of freshly roasted broccoli. A perfect meal for someone that you can easily prepare at home.
Cream of broccoli
Soups are always a great option and when you have a healthy vegetable like broccoli, it’s even better. Thick, creamy, healthy and perfect for winter wear.
pasta with broccoli
Add lots of cheese and chili, broccoli pasta is a delicious meal. Broccoli, chili, cheese, and pasta are all you need to make this 15-minute meal. Quick, easy and absolutely satisfying.