Broccoli Facts
An Interesting List of Broccoli Facts
• Broccoli is a member of the cabbage family, and is a cousin of cauliflower. It has many flower heads that look like trees. They grow from a stalk that is thick and edible.
• The top broccoli producing country is China, followed by India, the United States and Spain. Broccoli, facts state, was originally grown for profit in Italy. In that country, its name means “cabbage sprout”. Broccoli has various textures, in its stem and floret. It releases a bit of a sulfur smell when cooked, but the flavor is good, and the smell doesn't intrude when you eat it.
• One cup of steamed broccoli contains only 43 calories, and is full of important vitamins and minerals. It has over 200% of your recommended daily allowance of Vitamin C, and almost 200% of your RDA of Vitamin K. Broccoli also contains folate, dietary fiber and manganese.
• Broccoli facts state that human and animal studies show that if you eat good amounts of broccoli, you may have less a chance of contracting lung, breast, colon and ovarian cancers. When you pair broccoli with tomatoes, both vegetables make it even less likely that you will develop prostate cancer.
• Scientists have known for over twenty years that nutrients such as those in broccoli have an antioxidant effect that nullifies the affects of free radicals in your body. Now they are discovering that those nutrients in broccoli cause your body to increase its production of enzymes which help the body detoxify itself.
• There is an active compound in broccoli, facts confirm, that has been proven to help especially skin and liver cells detoxify the body. New research is showing that the same compound helps to repair skin that has been damaged by the sun.
• People who have the highest intake of broccoli and other vegetables and fruits with flavonoids, according to studies, decreased their risk of contracting heart disease by 20%.
• Broccoli facts also state that the vegetable aids you in building stronger bones, through its Vitamin C and calcium content. These also help to fortify your immune system.
• New studies have shown that broccoli is beneficial for consumption by pregnant women. Broccoli, facts can confirm, has folic acid which helps your body in cell division, and helps the fetus grow.
• How to enjoy broccoli? Here are a few ways...
• Sprinkle sesame seeds and lemon juice over broccoli that is lightly steamed.
• Toss pine nuts and sautéed broccoli florets with olive oil and pasta, and season to taste.
• Puree cauliflower and cooked broccoli, and then whip in your favorite seasonings to make a healthy and delicious soup.
• Add broccoli to your diet and enjoy its healthy attributes and its delicious taste.