Vitamin K
Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin K which is essential for keeping our bones healthy. This fat soluble vitamin helps the body absorb calcium and helps with blood clotting. It’s been observed that people with a deficiency in vitamin K more likely suffer from osteoporosis.
The National Institute of Health recommends that women receive a minimum of 90 mcg of vitamin K and 120 mcg for men. A cup of steamed broccoli will provide you with 85 mcg of vitamin K; not to mention all the nutrients and antioxidants it contains.
Researchers from the University of Bristol found that vitamin K improves bone health by activating a protein which is essential to the production of osteocalcin. This protein is responsible for the formation of bone and the maturation of new cells.
Additionally, recent studies suggest that a daily intake of vitamin K may help reduce fractures related to osteoporosis.
Vitamin C
One cup of broccoli will provide you with 135% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. This vitamin plays a major role in the regenerative process of the body.
Vitamin C helps our bodies absorb iron, plays a role in collagen production, and increases the immune system. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that may protect us from certain illnesses such as cancer and heart disease.
Andy Smith, a nutritionist, commented on the importance of vitamin C for the regeneration of cells. “Vitamin C helps our cells regenerate. We need it to repair and grow new and healthy cells.”
The American Cancer Society suggests that vitamin C works as a preventive measure against cancer. It’s been observed that people who take at least 200mg of vitamin C a day have a decreased chance of developing cancer.
B Vitamins
Broccoli contains all 8 of the B vitamins essential for a healthy body. B vitamins play an important role in the metabolic process of our bodies.
B vitamins help rationalize the conversion of glucose to provide our body with energy. They aid in hemoglobin formation, helps with red blood cell production, and strengthen our nerve cells.
B vitamins have also been linked to a decrease in depression symptoms and an increase in cognitive functions. “B vitamins are essential for our bodies to function properly” states Dr. Kantor, a professor in nutrition.
It’s been observed that people deficient in B vitamins, specifically B6, have a heightened chance of depression. People with B6 deficiencies have been found to have lower levels of serotonin, a hormone that helps with mood regulation.
Other Vitamins and Minerals
Broccoli also contains other vitamins and minerals essential for our bodies such as vitamin A, vitamin E, potassium, and calcium. Vitamin A helps our bodies to have good vision and healthy immune systems, while vitamin E helps to protect our cells from environmental damage.
Potassium is essential for nerve signals and muscular functions, and calcium keeps our bones and teeth strong.
The combination of all these vitamins and minerals helps to create a well-balanced diet and promote long-term health.
Conclusion
Overall, broccoli is a great source of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Eating even a small amount of broccoli can help protect your body from disease and improve your overall health.
From vitamins K, C, B, and A, to potassium and calcium, broccoli should be a fundamental part of your diet to help keep your body healthy for the long term.
