If there was one vegetable that everyone should eat, it's broccoli. I understand it's not exactly the sexiest vegetable but broccoli is the ultimate utility player. It's not often I'll make a sporting reference here, but think of broccoli as the rugby player Michael Hooper.
Michael Hooper has all the rugby basics mastered, and on top of that he has a flair to his game which brings results. And the best part of him as a player is that he can play anywhere on the field.
Broccoli, like Hooper, has all the conventional nutritional standards mastered. It provides a little bit of almost every nutrient you need. It's low in calories, high in fibre and vitamins C, K and folate, plus it contains significant amounts of several other vitamins and minerals. Just one cup of broccoli contains your 90 per cent daily recommended intake of vitamin C, and 70 per cent of vitamin K.
And for that special bit of flair, broccoli contains many classes of beneficial phytochemicals such as which fight cancer, and other chronic diseases as well. The main phytochemical sulforaphane reduces the risk of cancer forming at the molecular level by reducing oxidative stress.
Broccoli has also been shown to lower cholesterol levels, improve eye health, promote healthy gut bacteria.
Now the best thing about broccoli is that it can be prepared in so many various ways. You can lightly stir-fry it with garlic and oyster sauce, steam it with salt and pepper, or even bake it in the oven with a small amount of parmesan cheese.
If you're looking for a health boost, consider adding this cruciferous vegetable to your diet today. Moreover, don't forget to also add other vegetables into your diet. It's a good idea to associate a good diet with some important habits.
Dr Zac Turner has a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Sydney. He is both a medical practitioner and a co-owner of telehealth service, Concierge Doctors.
