Broccoli

http://bonnieplants.com/growing/growing-broccoli/

One of my favorite vegetables of all time is definitely broccoli. I don't know what it is about this weird looking baby tree, but I can't get enough of it. Whether it's raw, steamed, or anything in between, my mom never had to be creative to get me to eat it. As I got older, I really appreciated the heath benefits broccoli had to offer.

It should not be a surprise that broccoli has several benefits, but it may be surprising that broccoli is in the cabbage family. Health benefits include:

1. Cancer: Broccoli has several cancer fighting properties that are effective in preventing the development of several cancers including prostate, cervical and breast cancers while also improving the health of your liver.

2. Detox/Diet: Broccoli has 3 phytonutrients that have a strong influence on detoxifying the body. It also has loads of fiber to help with digestion, prevents constipation, and helps to draw out unhealthy levels of cholesterol.

3. Skeletal Health: High in calcium and vitamin K, essential in bone health and osteoporosis prevention.

4. Antioxidant: With high concentrations of vitamin C, this veggie can help with improving the absorption of iron and fight off the common cold.

5. Heart Health/Blood Health: Broccoli may be able to prevent or even reverse blood vessel lining damage that can be caused by inflammation due to blood sugar issues. In turn, because of the high levels of soluble fiber broccoli can help maintain low blood sugar.

6. Reduce Inflammation/Allergies: Broccoli contains omega 3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory benefits. These benefits help fight allergies and inflammation. 



Broccoli has a lot of protein in it with low calories. From eye health to skin health, broccoli has a lot more to offer than some realize. There are loads more benefits that broccoli offers, so I encourage you to do more research on this little gem if you want to learn more. If you were never a fan of this guy, give him another chance. He's not all that bad!

-Let's eAt

Credits:

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=9

http://www.naturalnews.com/039187_broccoli_health_benefits_risk_factors.html

http://www.forbes.com/sites/juliewilcox/2012/07/01/health-benefits-of-broccoli/