Broccoli is one of those vegetables that is so easy to purchase and has more benefits than just about anything but that I don’t seem to eat enough of. I believe that if we could only eat one vegetable we should choose broccoli because of all the benefits. Broccoli contains iron, potassium, folic acid, Vitamin A, Vitamin E and Vitamin K to name a few. It helps detoxify the body and contains pectin fiber that binds to bile acids and keeps cholesterol from being released into the bloodstream. Broccoli helps maintain blood-sugar levels and kills bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers and stomach cancers. Broccoli has more vitamin C than an orange and as much calcium as a glass of milk. It is also loaded with fiber.
Before cooking broccoli, it should be cleaned first by rinsing with cold water. Do not soak in water because soaking broccoli can remove most of the nutrients contained in the broccoli. If broccoli is cooked to long, it will lose a lot of the vitamins. Broccoli should be cooked for no more than five minutes. The best way to maintain all the positive benefits of broccoli is to steam them.
We should be eating plenty of broccoli, especially if we are lacking the vitamins and minerals we need in the rest of our diet. However, that being said please check with your doctor if you have a thyroid disorder. Large quantities can interfere with thyroid function because it contains a chemical called goitrogens. The article below will give you a lot more information about the benefits of broccoli as well as how to grow your own broccoli in your garden. I have also included a link for some broccoli recipes…
THE CHEF and HER KITCHEN: Broccoli Stir Fry | Broccoli Recipes