Broccoli is considered a health superfood and there are many benefits to eating it. People say that eating broccoli improves heart health, controls blood sugar levels and can prevent diseases like cancer. But are all these things true? Is broccoli really that beneficial, or are some things exaggerated about it? Let us know what are the benefits of broccoli and how beneficial it really is for us.
Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli contains many nutrients that are good for our body. It contains a compound called glucoraphanin, which forms a substance called sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is believed to be helpful in reducing inflammation, reducing the risk of cancer, improving heart health, and controlling blood sugar levels. Apart from this, broccoli also contains fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, which boost the immune system and keep bones healthy.
Raw or cooked broccoli?
If you eat broccoli raw, it contains more sulforaphane. When you cut or chew broccoli, this substance becomes active and you get all its benefits. But when you cook broccoli, the amount of sulforaphane it contains decreases. Therefore, if you want to get the full benefit, it is best to eat broccoli raw.
Broccoli Supplements
Some people don’t like the taste of raw broccoli, so they use broccoli supplements. These supplements are made from broccoli stems and contain high amounts of sulforaphane. However, taking supplements can prevent you from getting all of broccoli’s benefits, such as fiber and vitamin K.
Is it okay to take supplements?
Although broccoli supplements may have some benefits, there is little research on them yet. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve supplements before they are released to the market. Therefore, always consult your doctor before taking a new supplement.
Important points
Broccoli is beneficial for your health, but eating it raw gives you more benefits. If you don’t like raw broccoli, you can try supplements, but these are not a complete replacement for broccoli. Always use supplements only after consulting your doctor.
Disclaimer: Some information provided in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you must consult the concerned expert.
