Cruciferous vegetables have cross-shaped flowers and are best known as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, arugula, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, collards, watercress, and radishes. They pack a nutritional punch and are rich in vitamins and phytonutrients.
Phytonutrients are plant-based compounds that provide many health benefits. Here are a few ways how cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli can benefit your health.
Help With Cognition
Because cruciferous vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, that makes them a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are perfect for maintaining cognitive health and reducing the risk of mental decline. Some of the best brain foods include broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage.
Support a Healthy Heart
Eating cruciferous veggies has been shown to lower the risk of heart disease. The high amount of dietary fiber and nutrient-rich vitamins in these veggies have been shown to improve cardiovascular health.
Most of this is due to sulforaphane -- a natural plant compound that's found in cruciferous vegetables. It's been linked to improved heart health and digestion with its ability to reduce inflammation.
Regulate Blood Sugars
A potent antioxidant that's found in cruciferous veggies can help lower blood glucose levels. These leafy green, non-starchy vegetables can keep blood sugar stabilized because they are low in natural sugar and high in fiber.
Reduce Cancer Risk
Consuming cruciferous vegetables even in liquid form like Cruciferous Cabbage may reduce your risk of specific types of cancer. These foods drive the detoxification of certain carcinogenic enzymes and are toxic to many cancer cells.
Studies have shown that glucosinolates -- chemical compounds found in cruciferous veggies -- may help to decrease the risk of lung, breast, kidney, mouth and throat cancers by triggering specific enzymatic reactions that protect cell damage.
