Why we should enjoy mini trees with our meals 

We can often get very confused on what we should be eating and what supplements we should be taking. It is sometimes good to hear and read the simple things, and be reminded that eating vegetables is massively beneficial.

One of our favourite health magazines is Natural Health. This month Tegan Philp, nutritional therapist for College of Naturopathic Medicine, shines the light on broccoli…

5 REASONS WHY WE SHOULD EAT BROCCOLI

1. IT’S HIGH IN FIBRE

Broccoli is a very good source of dietary fibre which helps support your digestive system. Soluble fibre from vegetables binds to toxins residing in your gut, helping to flush them out when you have a bowel movement. In just one cup of broccoli there is a helpful 5.1 grams of dietary fibre.

2. IT IMPROVES DETOXIFICATION

The liver is our primary organ of detoxification, helping to clear toxins from the body. In conjunction with being high in fibre, broccoli also contains plant-based protective compounds called Isothiocyanates that help our liver to filter and detoxify our blood. If possible, always buy organic, as pesticides sprayed on non-organically farmed foods are an added toxin, forcing the liver to work harder in the detoxification process.

3. IT PROTECTS YOUR HEART

Broccoli is wonderful for our blood and circulatory system. The phytonutrients (plant nutrient compounds) in the vegetable protect us from the risk of having a heart attack or stroke by helping to deliver fresh blood to our arteries, keeping them ‘unclogged’.

4. IT’S ANTI-AGEING

Broccoli contains an impressive profile of vitamins, including being a very good source of vitamin C, E and K. These are high in antioxidants that can ward off the signs of ageing. By adding an extra serving of broccoli to your diet, you can boost your antioxidant status, which will help to stave off wrinkles, keeping your complexion bright and youthful.

5. IT HELPS YOU FIGHT DISEASE

Broccoli contains a wonderful antioxidant-protecting compound called sulforaphane. Studies show that this naturally occurring compound may prevent various diseases, including cancer. The sulforaphane contained in broccoli helps to fight disease by protecting our cells from mutating and becoming abnormal in the first place.

SIMPLE WAYS TO ADD BROCCOLI TO YOUR DIET

• Add it to stir-frys, salads, quiches, or soups
• Eat it as a side dish or blend it into dips
• Eat it raw – it’s delicious with hummus or a fresh beetroot dip
• Make broccoli frittatas for breakfast on the run, or as a healthy lunch-box snack