Author: Marko Balašević
Time for reading: ~2
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
The health benefits of its consumption are due to the large list of elements contained in it
Cauliflower is one of the foods that are often present on our table in winter. It is found both in many pickles and as an ingredient in various dishes.
The health benefits of its consumption are due to the large list of elements contained in it. If we include it in our menu, we will get vital minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, sodium and iron. It does not contain harmful cholesterol, but only useful proteins and a large amount of phytochemicals, unsaturated fats, of which omega-3 fatty acids.
Cauliflower provides dietary fiber to the body. It contains very few natural sugars compared to other vegetables similar to it.
Cauliflower contains vitamin C, manganese and other powerful antioxidants that give energy to the body. It also contains phytochemicals such as glucobrasicin, glucoraphanin and gluconastrortin. These components stimulate enzymes that protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Regular consumption of cauliflower improves blood circulation and helps maintain the proper functioning of blood vessels. This reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and heart problems. This is mainly due to glucoraphanin (has an anti-inflammatory effect) and vitamin K.
Studies in the United States have shown that indole-3-carbinol, present in cauliflower, inhibits the growth of cancer cells. They provide evidence that eating vegetables such as cauliflower reduces the risk of various types of cancer.
Dietary fiber in cauliflower aids digestion and stimulates the excretion of toxins from the body. The presence of glucosinolate, glucoraphanin and sulforaphane in vegetables protects the stomach and helps the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Another important thing is that the vitamin C in cauliflower helps to better absorb iron and increases hemoglobin. It also takes care of bone health. Vitamin K, on the other hand, fights bone loss. Last but not least, vitamin C is also good for eye health - it protects retinal tissues from damage caused by oxidative stress, prevents vision damage and various eye diseases such as cataracts.
Studies show that eating cauliflower and other cruciferous vegetables helps with healthy skin and hair. The sulforaphane in it protects the body against inflammation, skin cancer, sunburn. It also promotes hair growth due to the presence of sulfur and silicon in cauliflower.
Cauliflower is rich in antioxidants and immune-boosting nutrients. Among other benefits, the presence of vitamin C in it strengthens the body's defense mechanisms by preventing inflammation.