Broccoli Protects Against Free Radical Damage

Free radical damage can lead to cancer. Animal studies have shown that the phytonutrient indole-3-carbinol, specifically found in broccoli, can prevent tumors.

One animal study showed that indole-3-carbinol destroyed cancerous cells in rodents with breast cancer. In addition, Japanese research has determined that sulforaphane, another specific phytonutrient found in high amounts in broccoli, also inhibits tumor growth.

Broccoli’s cancer-prevention properties don’t end there. Broccoli also contains a plant compound called D-glucarate. Also known as glucaric acid, D-glucarate has been shown to reduce the risk of developing certain cancers due to its ability to help detoxify the body of cancer-causing chemicals. A key way your body eliminates toxins is through compounds that attach themselves to toxic molecules, then escort them out of the body, usually via the urinary tract or the colon, which is just what D-glucarate appears to do.

Broccoli also benefits your heart with magnesium, your blood pressure and bones with calcium and potassium and your cholesterol levels with lutein.

Make It Better With Broccoli:

Eating steamed broccoli as a side dish and dunking raw broccoli into your favorite dip for a heart-healthy snack are certainly popular ways to boost your broccoli intake. But don’t stop there. Add broccoli to pasta dishes by stuffing it into shells or mixing it into pasta primavera. Fold it into your next omelet and try the recipe below to prepare a big pot of broccoli soup that’s low in calories but high in nutrients.

Try to eat at least one serving of cruciferous veggies every day. Remember that organically grown produce is always the best, so choose organic broccoli whenever possible.

Broccoli Soup Recipe:

• 5 cups low-sodium organic chicken stock
• 1 lb. fresh broccoli, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 Tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp. curry powder to taste (optional)

Bring the stock to a boil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the broccoli, onion, and garlic and simmer until soft, about 30 minutes. Puree the soup in a food processor or blender, return to the pot, and add the lemon juice and pepper. For an extra kick of flavor, add the curry powder right before you puree the soup. Makes 5 servings Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories 50, Total Fat 1 g, Sodium 102 mg, Carbs 11 g, Fiber 3 g, Protein 5 g

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