Broccoli For Well Being

Broccoli is a plant in the cabbage family, whose large flower head is used as a vegetable. The health benefits of broccoli along with the easy availability of this super vegetable make it one of our most popular vegetables.

Health Benefits Of Broccoli

·         Anti-cancer properties, reduces the risk of certain types of cancer such as breast cancer, colon cancer and lung cancer.

·         Anti aging properties.

·         Aid digestion.

·         Acts as detoxifier.

·         Control diabetes.

·         Improve immune system.

·         Maintain healthy eyesight due to presence of Beta-carotene.

·         Protect against UV radiation.

·         Strengthen bone and Prevent osteoporosis.

·         Prevent anemia.

·         Maintain a healthy pregnancy.

·         Reduce Alzheimer’s disease risk.

·         Lower cholesterol and high blood pressure.

·         Reduce heart disease risk.

·         Weight loss diet. Approximately 146 gram of broccoli contains less than 50 calories.

Cooking With Broccoli

   To know how to eat broccoli you need to develop and acquire the taste for it. Fortunately, there are a few interesting ways in which you not just like eating broccoli, but also love them.

   Don’t throw away stems of broccoli, slice them in small pieces and add to your dishes. The best way to prepare & eat broccoli, nutrient-wise, is lightly steamed. The worst way is to microwave, as this seriously reduces its antioxidant levels.

   Also, the next time you're shopping for vegetables, note that some broccoli tops appear purpled than others, meaning they possess a higher level of carotenoids, which is better for your health.

·         Broccoli slaw: Just use your favorite coleslaw recipe and substitute the broccoli for cabbage.

·         Raw Broccoli: The most common way of eating raw broccoli is making salads out of them. Just cut the broccoli florets and put them in a bowl. Now add onion, raisins, bacon, cheese, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper and mix well.

·         Steamed broccoli: Steam the broccoli for some time till it is softened. Sauté it for a minute on medium flame. Add some olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper to add flavor. Top with a little lemon juice and chilli flakes.

·         Stir Fry: Heat oil and add the broccoli florets. Stir fry for 5 minutes until crisp. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, honey, ginger and pepper sauce. Mix this broccoli and cook till the sauce thickens. Serve hot.

·         Roasted Broccoli: Toss some broccoli florets with olive oil, salt and pepper and bake them in the oven for about 15 minutes (at 200◦C). Take them out from the oven and generously sprinkle some lemon juice. Try them as individual dish or with brown rice.

·         Broccoli Shakes: Try making a healthy and tasty shake by blending broccoli, apples and grapes together and enjoy the slight-sweet-slight-tangy shake.

Be creative and enjoy the healthy benefits of broccoli!!