Broccoli is a green vegetable that vaguely resembles a miniature tree. It belongs to the plant species known as Brassica oleracea. It’s closely related to cabbage, Brussels sprouts, kale and cauliflower — all edible plants collectively referred to as cruciferous vegetables. Broccoli can provide many benefits like cancer prevention, improved bone health, lower cholesterol levels and much more.

Cancer Prevention

Cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, which can be initiated by DNA damage due to oxidative stress. Research has shown that sulforaphane and other compounds in broccoli may protect our cells from the damage caused by oxidative stress. Other nutrients that can help protect us from oxidative stress include beta-carotene, Vitamin C and lutein. Broccoli is also rich in plant chemicals known as indoles which activate enzymes that may help clear carcinogens before they can damage DNA. As mentioned above, these nutrients are found in larger quantities in microgreens than their adult counterparts, making them a great addition to your healthy diet.

Improvements In The Health Of Pregnant Women

Broccoli microgreens are packed with nutrients that offer significant health benefits to pregnant women. These nutrients include folate which prevents birth defects, calcium for strong bones and teeth, Vitamin A for healthy vision and skin, Vitamin C for immunity and potassium to keep blood pressure levels in check. Improved Bone Health Broccoli and other green vegetables high in vitamin K are great for bone health. The vitamin K-dependent protein called osteocalcin is believed to play an important role in bone mineralization. Other bone-nourishing nutrients in broccoli microgreens include calcium, magnesium, manganese and potassium.

Lower Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol serves many important functions in the body. That said, too much cholesterol in the bloodstream can lead to heart disease. A diet rich in plant-based foods is believed to help lower LDL cholesterol levels, and broccoli microgreens are no exception. They contain substances that bind with cholesterol-containing bile acids in the digestive system, preventing them from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This is one of the most profound nutrient qualities of broccoli microgreens.

Improved Blood Sugar Balance

Blood sugar increases after consuming food containing carbohydrates. This is normal, but if you have diabetes or insulin resistance, your body has a harder time getting sugar from your blood into your cells. If blood sugar stays elevated over time, damage can occur. Broccoli microgreens contain significant amounts of chromium which helps insulin do its job so that your cells can use those carbohydrates for energy. Chromium may help reduce fasting blood sugar levels in diabetics. The fiber in broccoli microgreens can also help with blood sugar balance because it slows down the rate at which foods are digested, giving your body more time to process them.

Weight Loss

Because of their high fiber content, microgreens can be useful for people who are trying to lose weight. Just don’t expect them to magically make you skinny on their own. They contain nutrients that support fat loss and keep you satisfied and nourished, but they won’t make you lose weight without a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Reduced Inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s response to injury or illness. When you sprain your ankle, for example, pro-inflammatory substances are produced which cause pain and swelling. While this pro-inflammatory response helps protect us from further harm, it can also be harmful if it persists for too long. Broccoli microgreens contain bioflavonoids and isothiocyanates- substances that help reduce inflammation by blocking enzymes which produce pro-inflammatory compounds in the body.

Improved Eye Health

The antioxidant lutein is known to help protect the retina of the eye, which can deteriorate due to oxidative stress. While this substance does not absorb well when taken in supplement form, it is very effective when ingested through food sources such as broccoli microgreens. Other microgreen vegetables high in lutein include kale and basil.

Increased Energy And Endurance

Broccoli microgreens can help fuel our body to run like a well-oiled machine. Some of the most important nutrients for energy production and endurance include iron, B vitamins (B1, B5 and B6), Vitamin E, and Zinc. Several studies have shown that deficiency in Zinc might lead to lower physical performance in adults. This deficiency is often seen in vegetarians, making microgreens an excellent source of this important nutrient. Iron plays a role in hemoglobin formation- the substance that carries oxygen to our cells. Lastly, Vitamin B1 (thiamin) and Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) support energy production in the body.

Improved Digestion And Gut Health

Many plant-based foods are known to contain significant amounts of fiber. The average adult needs 20-35 grams of fiber each day, but many people only get half that amount. Broccoli microgreens are an excellent source of prebiotic fibers which support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and help keep you regular. Fiber is also believed to help lower the risk of heart disease. These nutrients support digestive health and help prevent symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Natural Detoxification

Detoxification is the body’s natural response to harmful substances or waste products. The colon is one major detoxification center because it is rich in good bacteria that help the body remove toxins and waste. When broccoli microgreens are included in your diet, your colon stays functional and healthy, which prevents constipation and other common bowel problems.

Improved Immunity

Broccoli microgreens are rich in vitamin C which acts as an antioxidant, strengthens the immune system and helps fight congestion, colds and flu. The high amounts of vitamin C also support the body’s ability to heal and repair tissue.

Healthy Hair, Skin And Nails

Biotin deficiency can lead to brittleness in hair and nails, as well as dermatitis. When you eat broccoli microgreens regularly, they contribute to your biotin intake so you can avoid these symptoms.

Fights Chronic Disease

Broccoli microgreens fight chronic disease by keeping the body strong and balanced. This is because they contain an abundance of nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, beta-carotene, folate, calcium potassium and iron. The vitamin A in these greens helps maintain healthy eyesight; Vitamin C supports a strong immune system; calcium and potassium support healthy blood pressure levels; and iron supports energy production.