Some stars are loved by all and sundry. Other stars are loved by a few, hated by others and treated indifferently by the rest. Broccoli, the crunchy cruciferous vegetable with excellent benefits, is one such undervalued star. There’s more to the simple broccoli than meets the eye, just give it a chance! 

Broccoli - The Ultimate Celebration of Nutrient Stardom

This week we celebrate one of the most underrated stars in the vegetable domain: the humble broccoli. Did you wrinkle your nose in distaste? You’re not alone! Broccoli inspires a love-hate relationship with most people, possibly due to childhood experiences of being forced to wipe the plate clean of all traces of this nutrient-rich vegetable. Well, your parents were onto something. This worthy vegetable, which by the way can be prepared with the most scrumptious recipes, benefits your health in more ways than one.
The most common variety is the widely-recognized green broccoli. Other available varieties are greenish purple or deep sage in color. The finest superstars are lauded for their versatility, and broccoli fits comfortably into that category; it can be baked, roasted, boiled, steamed and cooked! Broccoli is quite often accused of being bland in taste and texture. This allegation could not be any further from the truth; whether your lunch menu consists of vegetable salad, soup or roast chicken, a helping of creamy, buttery-textured broccoli is sure to spruce up your meal!

For The Love of All Things Beneficial

Broccoli has a lot going on in the nutrient department. All those vital minerals and vitamins stored inside this crunchy green vegetable translate into a weighty list of golden health benefits that keep your body in top form!

Happiness from the Heart!

Broccoli is home to certain leading anti-inflammatory compounds and anti-oxidants such as vitamin C, lutein, several B vitamins and Beta Carotene. Atherosclerosis, cholesterol issues, stroke and blood pressure problems are just some of the illnesses that a regular dose of broccoli can successfully prevent.

Anti- Cancer Crusade!

Broccoli is a member of the highly coveted cruciferous vegetables, known for the fierce protection they provide against possibly incapacitating ailments. Regular consumption of cruciferous vegetables has been reported to lower the risk of cancer substantially. The secret to this stringent protective power lies in the activating ability of two phytochemicals (indoles and isothiocyanates), which activate a set of enzymes that destroy cancer causing agents. 

Weight Control, the Broccoli Way!

Are you watching your weight these days? If you’re on the look-out for healthy, low calorie, natural foods to add to your meal plans, broccoli is the perfect candidate for the job. One cup of broccoli provides adequate beneficial nutrients and as much protein as a cup of rice, and that too at a calorie count of only 30!

Digestive Dilemma? Not While Broccoli’s around!

With broccoli on your plate, you won’t be troubled by constipation, diarrhea or any other digestive woes. Broccoli contains both soluble fiber and insoluble fiber, which together ensure the smooth functioning of the digestive tract.

Bolster Your Bones With Broccoli!

If you don’t have a penchant for milk and other calcium containing dairy products, broccoli is the perfect substitute! This green wonder contains enough calcium to fortify your bones and teeth. And there’s more; broccoli also contains manganese which stimulates the absorption and utilization of calcium by the body.