1. Prevents Cancer Several studies have proven that broccoli helps prevent cancer. According to researchers in the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, the ‘sulforaphane’ compound found in broccoli helps prevent cancer through the complex mechanism of epigenetics. Another study done at Johns Hopkins University shows that broccoli can prevent the development of tumors by 60 percent and help reduce the size of tumors by 75 percent. Broccoli may particularly hinder the growth of breast, uterus, cervical, prostate and skin cancer. Everyone should eat at least one and one-half cups of broccoli two or three times per week. Men should eat four servings per week to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. One seving of broccoli equals two florets. 2. Regulates Blood Pressure Researchers at the OHSU School of Medicine found that broccoli helps regulate blood pressure. Sulforaphane, an organic sulfur compound in broccoli, plays a key role in improved DNA methylation, which is crucial for normal cellular function and proper gene expression. This is turn helps regulate blood pressure level. Plus, the magnesium, calcium and potassium in broccoli also help regulate blood pressure. Broccoli along with other cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, horseradish and arugula must be included in your diet to normalize your blood pressure levels. 3. Maintains Heart Health Researchers at the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College London have proven that certain chemicals in broccoli boost a natural defense mechanism that protects arteries from clogging and causing heart attacks. Containing loads of potassium, vitamin C and antioxidants, broccoli improves the blood-pumping ability of arteries, reduces heart damage due to oxygen deprivation and provides higher levels of heart-healthy chemicals during oxygen deprivation. Some evidence also proves that eating broccoli on a regular basis can reverse the damage caused by diabetes to heart blood vessels. Include this heart-healthy vegetable in your diet to reduce your risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease, attacks and strokes. 4. Supports Detoxification Broccoli also helps your body in the detoxification process due to the presence of phytonutrients like glucoraphanin, gluconasturtiin and glucobrassicin. These phytonutrients have a strong impact on the overall detoxification process, including activation, neutralization and elimination of unwanted contaminants. Plus, isothiocyanates in broccoli help control the detox process at a genetic level. Eliminating toxins and waste products from the body is good for your overall health. It will help boost your energy level, increase immunity, improve metabolism, stimulate circulation and improve digestion. 5. Boosts Brain Power Broccoli is a great source of vitamin K, which is known to enhance cognitive function and improve brainpower. It also has several B vitamins that play a key role in improving mental stamina and memory. Broccoli can also relieve the effects of mental exhaustion and depression. The high amount of choline in broccoli is important in the growth of new brain cells as well as neural connections, which are essential for cognitive function and good memory. Choline can even prevent neural tube defects in newborns. Eating one cup of broccoli three times a week can reduce your chance of suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s in old age. 6. Aids Weight Loss By including broccoli in your diet, you can lose weight more quickly. It is a low-fat and low-calorie vegetable that helps fill you up quickly. Plus, its high fiber and water content add volume to your meal without adding empty calories. Also, it contains protein along with minerals like potassium, magnesium and manganese that are necessary for a healthy immune system and healthy body. A single cup of steamed broccoli is considered a healthy snack in any weight-loss diet plan.
Posted on: Wed, 29 Oct 2014 09:30:24 +0000
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