9 Good Reasons to Love Broccoli

2016-07-25

Behind its small green florets, broccoli hides an impressive array of wellness benefits. Still not convinced? Here are 9 good reasons to add broccoli to your menu on a regular basis.

Lists Liver Health

Broccoli Is Rich in Folates

It is one of the green vegetables most highly concentrated in folates (also known as folic acid or vitamin B9), alongside watercress and spinach (which is part of the top 10 antioxidant foods). Just 100 g of broccoli covers 51% of the daily recommended intake for vitamin B9, which is essential for cellular renewal and neurological function.

Broccoli Is Good for the Heart

Several studies have shown that regularly eating broccoli (about 5 servings a week) may help reduce the risk of experiencing certain cardiovascular challenges. Why? Because it contains flavonoids and phytosterols that offer protective support for the heart and blood vessels.

Broccoli Can Be Cooked in Many Ways

Raw or cooked (steam-cooked, boiled, braised…), in juice, in soup, whole or grated — broccoli can be served in countless forms. The benefit? Variety of flavors, of course, but also the ability to enjoy all its advantages. When cooked in water (always al dente), it provides vitamins B2, E, and copper; when raw, it delivers a maximum amount of vitamin C.

Broccoli Helps Prevent Cramps

Broccoli contains an interesting amount of potassium, a mineral involved in energy production and healthy muscle contraction. Athletes therefore have every reason to enjoy broccoli regularly.

Broccoli Boosts Energy

This is thanks to its high vitamin C content (89 mg per 100 g), which is twice as much as an orange! The only drawback is that vitamin C is fragile and partly destroyed during cooking. Eat broccoli raw or al dente (the faster the cooking, the more vitamins are preserved).

Broccoli Supports Eye Health

Broccoli contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants from the carotenoid family that play a role in vision.

Broccoli Is Packed with Vitamins and Minerals

In addition to vitamins C and B9, broccoli is also rich in vitamin K (which plays a role in blood clotting), in B-group vitamins, vitamin E, and vitamin A. It is also naturally rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium…

Broccoli Is Good for Memory

At least, that is what a study conducted by American researchers in Boston suggests. Carried out over more than 30 years, this study showed that regular consumption of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage was associated with slower cognitive decline.

Broccoli Is High in Fiber

Broccoli contains a good proportion of both soluble and insoluble fiber — around 2 g per 100 g. What is the benefit? Fiber supports healthy digestive transit and contributes to optimal digestion. It is also interesting because it helps promote satiety.

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