Broccoli: Top 6 Health Benefits

Broccoli not only possesses beauty in its appearance, it has the advantage of being packed with minerals, vitamins, and nutrients. It is part of the edible plant family named Brassica oleracea and is very closely related to the cruciferous family of vegetables which include kale and cabbage. There are three types; Calabrese, sprouting and one type that hides under the pseudonym ‘purple cauliflower’. It is a very versatile vegetable as it can be enjoyed cooked or raw and it comes with a wealth of goodness. Gather it all up in Broccoli: Top 6 Health Benefits!

1. Vitamin-Packed

One cup of raw broccoli possesses 135% of your daily vitamin C (84% if cooked), 115% of your daily vitamin K, 14% of your daily vitamin B9 and 11% of your vitamin A.

2. Diet Control

A cup of raw broccoli contains 2-3 grams of fibre and 2 ounces of water. It simultaneously supports your gut health and immune system, as well as making you feel fuller for longer. It’s an excellent low-calorie snack when aiming to maintain a healthy, balanced diet.

3. Heart Health

Various studies have indicated that broccoli supplements reduce ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL ‘good’ cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is well known for increasing your chance of developing heart disease, meaning the broccoli supplement could contribute to the maintenance of a healthy heart. 

4. Brain Function

Two compounds in broccoli, kaempferol and sulforaphane, have shown positive results in various studies into stroke and recovery of brain oxygen deprivation. Firstly, there appeared to be less inflammation following a stroke in mice who were treated with kaempferol. Secondly, brain tissue recovery was more rapid in mice that were treated with sulforaphane in comparison to those that were not.

5. Bone Strength

Vitamin K, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium (which are all present in broccoli), all work in unison to support bone density and strength.

6. Dental & Gum Health

Raw broccoli can brighten your smile as its rough texture can help remove plaque. Vitamin C and calcium are associated with reducing the risk of gum disease (periodontal disease).

Overall, broccoli is famous for being rich in vitamins and nutrients. The vegetable is a repository of several benefits from reducing gum disease to improving skin health and bone strength. Its versatility means it can be incorporated into virtually any dish and help improve your all-round health when part of a balanced diet. Whether you consume it raw, cooked or blended in a smoothie, it’s a brilliant natural daily addition! Love these little edible trees? Tell us how you have yours in the comments below, or on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!

Sources:

Hill, A. (2018) ‘Top 14 health benefits of Broccoli’ Available at https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-broccoli#TOC_TITLE_HDR_12

Sass, C. (2020) ‘9 health benefits of broccoli, according to a nutritionist’ Available at https://www.health.com/food/health-benefits-broccoli