6 HEALTH BENEFITS OF BROCCOLI

It is a vegetable made famous by President George H.W. Bush, and for all the wrong reasons. It seems President Bush did not like broccoli and he made it a point to communicate his distaste for the cruciferous vegetable. Despite the preference to keep broccoli off his dinner plates, a large number of people fry, boil, saute, grill, and even bake the vegetable on a regular basis. Broccoli represents a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help prevent the development of a wide variety of medical conditions. At our assisted living facility in Denver, Colorado, our highly-trained chefs incorporate broccoli into many dishes to boost the health of residents.

Let’s review the six health benefits of broccoli.

Lowers the Risk of Cancer

Antioxidants also play a role in preventing the development of cancer by repairing cell damage. The most impactful antioxidant is called sulforaphane, which contains a sulfur compound that gives broccoli a common bite. In addition to creating a unique aftertaste, sulforaphane also latches on to damaged cells to prevent the development of cancer.

Strengthens Bones

Older adults tend to lose bone density. Calcium and collagen work seamlessly together to maintain strong bones. Broccoli is a rich source of both calcium and vitamin C, which is the vitamin needed to produce collagen. It also supplies the body with vitamin K to help prevent and even treat osteoporosis. For seniors who are more at risk for sustaining bone fractures, adding broccoli to their diets can prevent this type of debilitating injury.

Enhance Skin Health

Collagen also is important for the body to support cells and organs, which includes the cells embedded in your skin. Antioxidant vitamin C helps prevent skin damage, such as the wrinkled skin that develops due to a lifetime’s worth of sun exposure. Studies indicate vitamin C plays a role in treating skin conditions like shingles and skin cancer.

Improve the Digestive System

Broccoli represents an abundant source of dietary fiber, which is needed to promote a healthy digestive system. Research demonstrates that at least the recommended minimum daily intake of broccoli prevents the development of constipation, as well as reduces the risk of contracting colon cancer. A screening trial conducted in 2015 proved that people who consumed the highest levels of fiber were less likely to develop colorectal cancer than people who consumed low levels of fiber.

Boost Immune Health

As a rich source of vitamin C, broccoli helps promote a healthy immune system. This is especially critical for older adults who tend to get sick more often than adults who are many years younger. Eating enough broccoli can reduce the severity of cold symptoms, as well as shorten the amount of time you feel sick.

Decrease Inflammation

Inflamed joints and muscles can force you to remain stationary for prolonged periods. The antioxidant sulforaphane found in broccoli once again comes to the rescue by decreasing inflammation in joints and muscles to keep you on your feet throughout the day.

MorningStar at Observatory Park places an emphasis on providing residents with healthy menu options. Because of this, broccoli is often featured as part of a main dish or as a side vegetable that complements a meal. Our caregivers also educate residents on how to incorporate healthy menu items such as broccoli into the meals they cook in their apartments.