The Bountiful Benefits of Broccoli

The Bountiful Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli has been deemed as a superfood by a lot of nutritionists and lifestyle gurus. Regardless of whether you have a love or hate relationship with broccoli, its many nutritional and bountiful benefits of broccoli are undeniable. Aside from health benefits, broccoli is also very versatile as an ingredient. You can put it in salads, smoothies, mac n’ cheese, casseroles, and so much more! The list of recipes with broccoli is one that’s never ending. Keep reading to learn about some of the ways broccoli is beneficial for your body and some crafty but tasty ways to incorporate it into your daily diet.

Broccoli health benefits

Broccoli Nutrient Facts

One cup of raw broccoli packs in 2.6 grams of protein and 2.4 grams of fat and is filled with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. To get into specifics, broccoli has Vitamins A, B9, C, and K and contains the minerals potassium, phosphorus, and selenium. Fiber is also thought to lower blood sugar levels and foods with fiber keep you feel for longer periods of time, eliminating the need for mindless snacking in between meals. Even more good news for weight-conscious people: raw broccoli only has 0.3 grams of fat per cup so you can eat plenty of it without feeling guilty or packing on the calories! Just as a cautionary tip, nutrient values may change based on how you cook it. For maximum benefits we suggest consuming it raw or steamed.

Broccoli is rich in antioxidants

Broccoli contains many antioxidants and bioactive compounds. The antioxidants support healthy cell and tissue growth in your body and bioactive compounds have been shown to counteract inflammation. Broccoli has also been shown to increase heart health, possibly decrease chances of acquiring certain cancers (breast, prostate, kidney, gastric, and colorectal), aid in healthy digestion, support brain health and slow down mental decline that naturally comes with age, and support a strong skeletal system including teeth and joints. Broccoli is also recommended for pregnant women since the nutrient content is so high. The B9 vitamin in broccoli, also called folate, is recommended for fetal spinal and brain development.

broccoli-benefits

Broccoli is Versatile

Because broccoli is so versatile, you can enjoy it in many different ways to suit your taste buds. Some ways to incorporate more of it in your diet is by adding it to your salads, tossing it in to your favorite pasta or fried rice recipes, blending it into a veggie smoothie, or putting small pieces on your pizza! Keep in mind that the longer you cook it, the less nutrients you’ll get from eating the broccoli. Regardless, broccoli is such a nutrient-dense vegetable that it’s worth to try and incorporate into your daily diet. It offers a wide range of health benefits so you can feel and look your best!

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Author: Ahaana Sahay