Bite of The Week

Ok, so if you’re like me and you dread the big “C” – cancer – I’m quite sure decreasing your likelihood of developing any of its many forms.  Yes, we can’t deny hereditary factors but we also know that there are many other external factors that contribute to our developing these diseases. My favourite is, of course, what I eat. We’ve heard it time and time again. Studies prove it. You really are what you eat.

One vegetable provides not only powerful phytonutrients that neutralize carcinogens, but also stimulates detoxifying enzymes that help the body rid itself of cancer-causing and other harmful toxins.

Can you guess the vegetable?

The Award Goes To:

Yes, broccoli is one of the richest food sources of the flavonoid kaempferol, which has shown protective benefits against ovarian cancer.

Something I didn’t know: It contains a compound called Indole-3-carbinol.

Why is Indole-3-carbinol Important?

ü  reduces the risk of breast and cervical cancers

ü  Helps suppress the spread of existing cancer.

And just when you think things can’t get any better, broccoli does it again!

It’s a superior source of folate.

Why Is Folate Important?

ü  Necessary for making and protecting DNA, producing new blood, forming new cells, and synthesizing protein.

ü   Tied to a decreased risk of some cancers in adults

Folate is one of the most important nutrients for pregnant women.

Why?

ü  Supports proper development of the fetal nervous system and protects against neural tube (birth) defects.

ü  Research shows that women are twice as likely as men to experience depression, and numerous studies have linked folate deficiency with depression.

Wait, One More (Benefit):

ü  Broccoli helps reduce bloating and water retention associated with premenstrual syndrome