The “Tree-Shaped” Veggie Kids Push Off Their Plates
Broccoli is one of the green vegetables many kids push off their plates. But, did you know that this tree-shaped food contains more protein than steak?
Between steak and broccoli, which of these is protein-rich? I bet you would be quick to answer steak. Wrong! Broccoli contains 11.1 grams of protein per 100 calories. While steak contains only 6.4 grams.
You see, green vegetables pack a powerful punch! Where do you think those big animals - like elephants, rhinoceroses, and gorillas - get their protein? They ate green grass! All protein on this planet is formed from the effect of sunlight on green plants. I make this point just to refute the common belief that protein comes mainly from animal meat.
Anyway, let’s go back to broccoli.
All About Broccoli
Classified among the plant species called Brassica oleracea, broccoli is closely related to Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale.
Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s a cruciferous veggie. And, therefore, it’s packed with vitamins (C, E., and K), minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. In fact, this plant contains more vitamin C than an orange and as much calcium as a glass of milk. One medium-sized stem has three times more fiber than a slice of wheat bread.
Moreover. the “tree-like” veggie is rich in folate and low on calories. Broccoli is also loaded with a cancer-fighting substance called sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is a sulfur-rich compound that helps activate our body’s immune cells. This compound also helps the liver detoxify potential carcinogens like cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes, drugs, and alcohol.
Furthermore, this cruciferous veggie lowers the risk of developing cancers of the skin, breast, oral cavity, throat, stomach, esophagus, lung, pancreas, and colon.
Dr. Joel Fuhrman, M.D., says we should eat large portions of green foods to achieve superior health and lean body. So, whenever we can and wherever we are, let’s make this a healthy habit.
