Broccoli – The amazing veggie! | Top 5 health benefits of Broccoli - Minimart Indian Grocery Delivery App
The new superfood in the market, broccoli looks like a wilted tree belonging to the cabbage family. The word cruciferous vegetable, broccoli is derived from the Italian word broccoli. The plural of broccoli, which refers to the "the flowering peak of a cabbage" and is completely edible (head and stalk). There are three common types of broccoli. The broccoli we know is called Calabrese broccoli.
There is a demand in India for green broccoli which has firm and dense flowers. Varieties like KTS-I, Solan Green, Palamvichitra, Pushpa and Aishwarya are found in broccoli.
Cultivation and Harvesting
It comes from the cultivar group of Brassica oleracea. It is an annual plant that grows rapidly in 70-150 days (depending on the favorable climate). Broccoli can only be grown manually. Farmers use the knife to harvest this nutritious crop. It can be cultivated in low rainfall areas of India and in winter. It can be grown in a variety of soils but is suitable for moist and loamy soils.
Contains a lot of nutrients
Broccoli is a super source of calcium, potassium and folic acid despite being low in calories. Among the vitamins, it is garnished with vitamin A, C and K. For a healthy diet, broccoli is best roasted or steamed because it robs it of its nutritional value. It is also high in fiber.
Many recipes can be made with broccoli. It can be eaten as a well-fried salad mix or in a roasting dish or pasta. Broccoli and almond soup are a favorite for winter dinners. The healthy crunch you get from this veggie is amazing.
Choose the best one before you buy
- When choosing broccoli at the market, choose one that is dark green, with a stiff, sturdy stalk and a bunch of lovely buds. Don't buy broccoli that turns yellow or fades.
- Broccoli should be stored in a loose perforated bag or in air pockets.
- It should be kept in the fridge and not stored outside. It should be eaten as soon as possible if you store it outside.
- Wash it off before you use it. Pre-washed broccoli limp and mould can be obtained.
- Although it is very nutritious and safe if you are taking medication, it is best to inform your doctor before including it in your diet.
- People who are allergic to cruciferous vegetables should be careful before placing broccoli on their plate.
Top 5 health benefits of Broccoli
1. It's Good for heart health
According to a study by Nutrition Research, regular consumption of steamed broccoli reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering the amount of total cholesterol in the body. Increasing the intake of vegetables in the diet, especially brassica vegetables such as broccoli can reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Contains cancer protection compounds
The main component of broccoli is a phytochemical called sulforaphane, which also causes the slightly bitter taste of broccoli. Sulforaphane plays a role in improving the detoxification of airborne toxins such as cigarette smoke. And help reduce the risk of certain cancers. Broccoli may have anti-cancer properties and reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
3. Boost the immune system
Being rich in sulphur, brassicas such as broccoli can promote gut health and consequently improve your protection against infection. This is because sulphur supports glutathione production, which helps maintain the integrity of the gut lining and its repair. As a powerful antioxidant, glutathione works throughout the body to protect cells from inflammatory damage.
4. Good for eye health
Broccoli contains carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, which reduce the risk of age-related eye disorders such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Broccoli also contains beta carotene, which the body converts into vitamin-A, the deficiency of which is associated with night blindness.
5. Can support hormonal balance
Brassica vegetables, such as broccoli, contain a plant compound called I3C (Indole-3-Carbinol), which acts as a plant oestrogen and helps balance hormones by regulating oestrogen levels. I3C also acts as a tool to reduce the risk of oestrogen-induced breast and reproductive cancers in both men and women. Brassicas, such as broccoli, affect oestrogen metabolism, which can lead to a more favorable composition.
Conclusion
Broccoli is expensive due to rising demand for it. As the new age superfood, it is rapidly gaining status as a gourmet product that will increase its demand. To add to that, the weather is tricky for this cold season, heat-sensitive crop. This requires a stable environment. Broccoli is very difficult to grown due to manual labour.
Good post
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