Health benefits of broccoli
Cholesterol reduction
Broccoli can help lower cholesterol because
the soluble fiber in the vegetable binds with the cholesterol in the blood.
This binding makes the cholesterol easier to excrete, and consequently lessens
cholesterol levels in the body.
Cancer prevention
Broccoli is a cruciferous
vegetable, and all vegetables in this group may be protective against some
stomach and intestinal cancers.
Anti-inflammatory benefits
Broccoli is a great
anti-inflammatory and may slow down the damage to joints associated with
osteoarthritis. Broccoli's isothiocyanates
and omega-3 fatty acids also help to
regulate inflammation.
Detoxification
Broccoli has substances that
aid in body's detoxification process, from activation to neutralization and
elimination of contaminants.
Eye health
Carrots are good for your eyes,
and that's because they contain lutein.
It's a compound antioxidant that's really good for eye health, and broccoli is
also a great way to get it. Another antioxidant in broccoli called zeaxanthin is similarly beneficial.
Both chemicals may help protect against macular degeneration, an incurable
condition that blurs central vision, and cataracts, a clouding of the eye's
lens.
Heart health
In addition to reducing
cholesterol, broccoli can aid in heart health by helping to keep blood vessels
strong. And the vegetable's B-complex vitamins can help regulate or reduce
excessive homocysteine. Excess
homocysteine, an amino acid that builds
up after a person eats red meat, increases the risk of coronary artery disease.
Digestion
Broccoli has nearly 1 gram of
fiber per 10 calories. Fiber helps keep you regular and helps maintain healthy
bacteria levels in the intestines.Broccoli also aids in digestion by helping to
keep your stomach lining healthy.
Health risks
In general, broccoli is safe to
eat, and any side effects are not serious. The most common side effect is gas
or bowel irritation, caused by broccoli's high amounts of fiber. All
cruciferous vegetables can make you gassy.
FACT: Broccoli
is president Obama´s favourite food.
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