There are so many health benefits of broccoli, that it is a force to be reckoned with in the world of vegetables. As a kid, you probably put it on the side of your plate and made faces at it. But, research has proven it to be one of the most essential vegetables in our diets; you should be running to the grocery store just to grab this nutritional powerhouse.
Here are the 5 health benefits of broccoli that make it a dietary staple:
Reduces Cholesterol
Cholesterol is one of the leading causes of heart problems and obesity among people. People with high cholesterol levels rejoice! One of the health benefits of broccoli is that it reduces the LDL (bad cholesterol) levels inside the body by up to 6-10%, if included regularly in a diet.
The fibers in broccoli make it easier for the body to excrete the excess cholesterol and only filters in the HDL (good cholesterol) to the body. Due to its fiber rich properties, the bile acids bind with it in the digestive tract and get removed easily.
Anti-Cancer
One of the most talked about health benefits of broccoli is that it is has anti-cancer properties. It boosts the immune system and greatly reduces the risk of cancer.
Since it is a cruciferous vegetable (from the family of cauliflowers, kale, cabbage, etc.), it contains the highest amount of sulfurophane—a compound that removes all the toxins that can create cancerous cells inside the body.
Rich in Antioxidants
Give it up for this green powerhouse to give your skin the TLC it needs. Broccoli is loaded with antioxidants, especially vitamin C, that help boost and maintain collagen levels in the skin. This prevents age spots, wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive creams and serums if you eat broccoli regularly. It is also enriched with caretenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin that makes it a perfect solution for maintaining your youth.
Helps in Weight Loss
The health benefits of broccoli don’t stop when it comes to losing weight. Broccoli aids in digestion by restoring balance in the digestive tract. It is full of minerals and vitamins such as zinc, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, vitamin A, B, C and even omega 3 fatty acids.
If you are on a healthy diet then broccoli should be your go-to vegetable because it helps curb unhealthy cravings as fiber takes longer to digest, leaving you feeling full for a longer time.
Broccoli also reduces the glucose levels, so people with diabetes can easily incorporate this in their low-sugar diets as well.
Healthy for Bones
Since broccoli contains high amounts of calcium, zinc and iron, it is one of the richest sources of minerals among green vegetables. People with arthritis and osteoporosis can also benefit from broccoli because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
So, even if you hated broccoli as a kid, as an adult, make sure to add this healthy staple to your diet.
