What is Broccoli?
The name “Broccoli” actually comes from the Italian word “Broccolo” which roughly translates to “the flowering crest of a cabbage”. This vegetable can be traced all the way back to the 6th-century Roman empire. Broccoli is the green edible part of a plant that belongs to the cabbage family with large flowering heads that resemble a tree. Broccoli can be eaten either raw or cooked, although many claim it's best eaten raw in order to minimize the loss of nutrients.Why is Broccoli so healthy?
Broccolis are very low in calories but they are packed with nutrients, this low-calorie & high nutrient density property makes Broccolis one of the healthiest vegetables in the world. Broccolis are also a great source of protein, fiber & minerals all of which are essential for a healthy body. One cup of Broccoli (90g) packs roughly:6g Carbs
2.6g Protein
0.3g Fat
2.4g Fiber
Broccolis are best to be consumed raw because of their high vitamin-c content & cooking negatively impacts the availability of the nutrient. If you cannot eat raw Broccolis, steaming them might be the healthiest option.
We have made understanding the importance of this vegetable a whole lot easier, here are five points that explain the health benefits of Broccoli & enlighten you as to why Broccolis should be an important part of your diet.
Five reasons why Broccoli should be a part of your diet:
1. Full of antioxidants
Broccolis are a dense source of antioxidants, these compounds help in eliminating free radicals present within the body. This can eventually lead to a reduction in internal inflammation, a risk of contracting deadly diseases like cancer & overall improvement of health. Research has shown that regular consumption of Broccolis can help in controlling blood sugar levels & lower cholesterol level as well.
2. Healthy Heart
There are several studies that prove that adding Broccoli to your daily diet can help in improving heart health. In one study it was seen that Broccolis help in lowering triglycerides or “Bad Cholesterol” levels within the body. Some studies also show that regular consumption of broccoli may reduce the risk of heart attacks as well.
3. Healthy Digestion
Packed with the goodness of fiber, Broccolis aid in digestion by contributing in a number of ways. The high fiber content helps in the formation of stools, nourishes the bacteria present within your gut & eases the digestion process.
4. Supports Healthy Brain Function
Including healthy green vegetables like Broccoli in your regular diet can slow down the aging of the brain. The nutrients present in vegetables like Broccoli support nervous tissue function & contribute greatly to slowing down mental decline. It is important to consume fresh green vegetables like Broccoli, in order to make sure your mental health & physical health are taken care of with the help of proper nutrition.
5. Healthy Eyes
Broccolis contain compounds called cartenoids that are directly linked to curbing age-macular issues like cataract. Broccolis are also a rich source of Vitamin A which is an essential compound responsible for eye health & treating night blindness. Broccoli is high in lutein and zeaxanthin, which are two of the most important nutrients for your eyes because they help to prevent retinal oxidation and age-related degeneration.
