Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is a dark green vegetable, with small, tight heads (curds) that are mounted on stem-like buds. It is a member of Brassica family of the Cruciferous vegetables, which includes kale, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Its scientific name is Brassica aleracea. Originated in Italy, Broccoli has today become a popular vegetable all over the world and is used in a variety of dishes and cuisines. However, very few people are aware of the fact that the vegetable has significant health benefits, which can prevent the occurrence of a large number of hazardous diseases. Its nutritional value can be estimated from the fact that it is the storehouse of protein, carbohydrates, calcium, iron, Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Apart from this; it contains effective phytochemicals and antioxidants, which combat various ailments. Some of the profound health benefits of broccoli are given below.

Nutritional Value of Broccoli

Given below is the amount of nutrients in 100 gm of broccoli:

Carbohydrates - 6.64 gm
Sugars - 1.7 gm
Dietary Fiber - 2.6 gm
Fat - 0.37 gm
Protein - 2.82 gm
Water - 89.30 gm
Vitamin A equiv - 31 μg
β-carotene - 361 μg
Thiamine (Vit. B1) - 0.071 mg
Riboflavin (Vit. B2) - 0.117 mg
Niacin (Vit. B3) - 0.639 mg
Pantothenic acid (B5) - 0.573 mg
Vitamin B6 - 0.175 mg
Folate (Vit. B9) - 63 μg
Vitamin C - 89.2 mg
Calcium - 47 mg
Iron - 0.73 mg
Magnesium - 21 mg
Phosphorus - 66 mg
Potassium - 316 mg
Zinc - 0.41 mg
Energy - 30 kcal (140 kJ)

Health and Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli

One of the main healthy benefits of broccoli is that it helps people in losing weight and gaining a healthy body.
Since it is a rich source of chromium, which helps regulate insulin and blood sugar, the vegetable can help control diabetes.
Broccoli has been found to be full of anti-aging properties.
The vegetable can help prevent arthritis in people, if consumed regularly.
Owing to its high calcium content, broccoli is believed to be helpful in preventing osteoporosis.
The vegetable has anti cancer properties and can suppress lung, colon and breast cancers.
Broccoli can prove to be helpful in preventing Alzheimer’s disease.
Rich in cholesterol-reducing fiber, the vegetable can help keep heart diseases at bay.
Broccoli has antiviral and anti-ulcer properties.
The vegetable is good for those suffering from constipation, mainly because it is rich in fiber.
Broccoli helps the body fight against Toxemia and Neuritis
The vegetable has proved to be helpful in controlling high blood pressure.
Broccoli helps regulate the digestion of food.
The vegetable may prevent cancer in organs and glands with epithelial tissue, because of its high Vitamin A content
Broccoli contains a substance called Sulphorafane, which is said to be helpful in reducing the production of malignant tumors.

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