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
