My friend finds broccoli a bit amusing. “What kind of cauliflower is this,” she wonders. “A green one at that!”
I have trained myself to like broccoli because I know it packs in a load of health benefits. I have learned that it tastes best when blanched, seasoned and drizzled with some lemon juice and olive oil. I enjoy it in pasta, and I find broccoli soup very comforting, especially with a sprinkling of roasted and sliced almonds.
Each time you eat broccoli, congratulate yourself for being health conscious. Look at the nutrients it lavishes on you:
Vitamin A: Known for its vital role in maintaining good vision and improving skin health, vitamin A also boosts immune function, keeping infections at bay. Broccoli has a good concentration of beta-carotene (pro-Vitamin A).
Vitamin C: Vitamin C synthesizes collagen, which nourishes tissue and keeps skin healthy and young. This antioxidant vitamin plays a role in regulating cholesterol levels, and strengthens the immune system, too. We humans do not produce Vitamin C, and must obtain it from our food. Broccoli is a rich source.
Vitamin K: This vitamin is essential for blood to clot normally. It prevents bone loss and protects the liver. Broccoli is one of the best sources of this key vitamin.
Fiber: Of course, fiber keeps your digestion smooth. But it has many other important benefits: fiber is known to lower your risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Calcium: Calcium is necessary for maintaining healthy teeth and bones, and it keeps nerve signals strong, and circulation brisk. Broccoli is among the most calcium-rich vegetables on earth. Two cups of it yield 124 mg of the mineral.
Potassium: One cup of steamed broccoli has more than 500 mg of potassium, which is responsible for healthy nerve response, muscular contractions and maintenance of cell fluid levels.
Magnesium: This essential mineral governs hundreds of biochemical reactions in our body. It regulates body temperature, detoxifies, gives energy and strengthens bones and teeth. Broccoli is a good source of magnesium.
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