Broccoli is one of the best foods that mother nature makes. So it belongs in a smoothie on principal alone. And even though many people claim to hate the taste of broccoli (thanks, President Bush) it is very easily hidden in a smoothie. And if you can’t taste it, you still get the healthy benefits from it. Just how good for you is broccoli? Let me provide 7 great health benefits from broccoli.
1. Broccoli Can Prevent Cancer
This handy vegetable has glucoraphanin which changes to a cancer-fighting compound, sulforaphane. Broccoli also has indole-3-carbinol and strong anti-carcingoen which combats many cancer such as prostate, cervical and breast cancer. Trust me, eat it.
2. Broccoli can Reduce Cholesterol
It has a lot of soluble fiber which leeches cholesterol from the the body.
3. Broccoli Reduces Inflammation & Allergic Reactions
Broccoli is a particularly rich source of kaempferol and isothiocyanates, both anti-inflammatory phyto nutrients. Broccoli has significant amounts of omega 3 fatty acids, which are well know as an anti-inflammatory.
4. Broccoli is a Powerful Antioxidant
5. Broccoli Helps Make Strong Bones for Bone Health
Broccoli contains high levels of both calcium and vitamin K, both of which are important for bone health and prevention of osteoporosis.
6. Broccoli is Good for Heart Health
Sulforaphane (see number 1) has anti-inflammatory properties and may be helpful in preventing and reversing damage to the linings of blood vessels due to inflammation from blood sugar problems.
9. Broccoli Alkalizes Your Body
As with most vegetables, broccoli will keep the acid levels in your body low and that is a great thing.
Oh, right, here is the recipe. Almost forgot. Yay, Broccoli!
- 1 Carrot (chopped)
- 4 Florets of Broccoli
- 2 Handfuls of Spinach
- 1 Apple (chopped)
- 2 Oranges (peeled and quartered)
- Water to dilute as needed
You can change the fruit and vegetables to your requirements but this is one way of ensuring you get the portions of fruit and vegetables your body requires. Plus your kids won’t notice. Sneaky, right?
- Calories: 330
- Fat: 1.0g
- Carbs: 81.1g
- Fiber: 17.9g
- Sugars: 57.8g
- Protein: 7.4g
- Vitamin A: 290%
- Vitamin C: 491%
- Calcium: 25%
- Iron: 12%
Nutrition Grade: A
- Very low in saturated fat
- No cholesterol
- Low in sodium
- Very high in dietary fiber
- High in potassium
- High in riboflavin
- Very high in vitamin A
- Very high in vitamin C