Ever wonder if there are benefits to eating those bitter broccoli florets? Many people, especially kids, who are struggling to eat their broccoli tend to avoid it like the plague — which is quite a shame.

Broccoli is classified under the Brassica genus of plants alongside Brussels sprouts, cabbages and cauliflower. Although these veggies aren’t well-liked due to their shared bitterness, experts and nutritionists hail them for their wide range of nutrients and beneficial plant compounds.

The health benefits of broccoli

Love them or hate them, the fact remains that broccoli is one of the healthiest foods out there. Here are some of the science-backed health benefits linked to these little tree-like veggies:

Provides essential nutrients

One cup of broccoli provides almost 250 percent of the recommended intake for vitamin K, a micronutrient that supports bone health and blood circulation. The same size portion also holds 135 percent of the recommended intake for vitamin C, an immune-boosting nutrient. A cup of broccoli also supplies other essential nutrients like vitamins A and E, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, iron, calcium, potassium and omega-3s.

Promotes digestion

Most people make the grave mistake of chucking those tough broccoli stalks into the trash. These stalks hold beneficial fibers that help support digestion and metabolism. Broccoli stalks also hold water. Together, this water and fiber combination can boost feelings of fullness, thus preventing snacking in between meals and supporting weight loss.

Reduces the risk of cancer

Like most cruciferous vegetables, broccoli belongs to a long list of cancer-fighting foods. These veggies contain plant chemicals called glucosinolates that inhibit the onset of hormone-sensitive cancers like breast or prostate cancer. Broccoli is also rich in sulforaphane, an organic compound that stalls the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Supports heart health

Antioxidants in broccoli help protect the heart from inflammation and ease arterial stiffness due to cholesterol buildup. Thanks to these protective effects, eating broccoli can lead to better overall heart health and a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.

Boosts brain functions

Unstable molecules called free radicals can also wreak havoc in the brain, causing inflammation that heightens the risk of cognitive decline. Powerful antioxidants in broccoli help stave off free radicals and protect the brain from age-related changes.

Keeps bones strong

Out of all the cruciferous vegetables, broccoli contains the most nutrients essential for bone formation and overall bone health. These include vitamin K, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, copper, iron, zinc and B complex vitamins.

Fights inflammation

Broccoli’s numerous antioxidants protect against chronic inflammation linked to progressive diseases like diabetes and arthritis. Inflammation also tends to accelerate the aging process, resulting in visible signs of aging like wrinkles and sagging skin.

Eliminates toxins

Broccoli is a natural detoxifier, meaning it helps flush out toxins and harmful substances from the liver and bloodstream.

Protects the skin from sun damage

Antioxidants and other compounds in broccoli protect the skin from sun damage, which can lead to wrinkles, dark spots and skin cancer. Antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, in particular, also protect the eyes from macular degeneration, cataracts and other common vision problems.

It would be difficult to overstate just how good broccoli is. Given the essential nutrients and health benefits it offers, broccoli is one superfood to be reckoned with.

To maximize its nutrients and plant compounds, eat broccoli raw, blanched or stir-fried. Avoid steaming and boiling them as these methods can strip them of their nutrients.

Read more articles about the benefits of other cruciferous vegetables at Veggie.news.

Sources:

Health.com

BestHealthMag.ca