Broccoli Benefits for Skin And Woman’s Well-Being

Broccoli benefits for skin’s health and youthful looks are many. This is a quick note for those of you who are adding “new” items to their daily green foods.

If you are eating broccoli, the best way to eat it is either raw, sprouted or steamed. Why?

During the boiling and deep cooking, the enzyme – myrosinase – that is responsible for forming anti-cancerous and anti-inflammatory compound in broccoli will be destroyed. Without the myrosinase enzyme, broccoli, basically loses its golden diseases-fighting properties.

Also, please note if you are into supplements containing broccoli, you may not get what you’re looking for. One of the studies, just published, mentions both supplements and overcooked broccoli as deficient of the major enzyme myrosinase that is the key to broccoli’s beneficial qualities.

Include fresh broccoli in your daily feast of foods. Why? Just look at this short list of benefits to celebrate every day!

– Protects arteries against inflammation (and as you already know, inflammation is a precursor to many chronic diseases).
– Shields the gut from harmful flora that leads to stomach ulcers and cancer.
– Adds antioxidant protections to the lungs in those who smoke and in those who are just passive smokers, i.e., second-hand smoking.

Broccoli Benefits for Skin

The skin health advantages of broccoli are numerous and include:

Antioxidants and their role on skin’s health
Broccoli is a powerhouse of antioxidants that can aid in reducing inflammation and skin redness.

Lutein the Antioxidant
This carotenoid, found in abundance in broccoli, safeguards the skin against oxidative damage and prevents dryness.

Sulforaphane the Antioxidant
This powerful phytochemical present in broccoli shields the skin from sunburn and the detrimental effects of free radicals. When you include fruits and vegetables in bright yellow, red and orange colors, your skin gains access to this potent antioxidant.

As a reminder, photochemical damage to the skin is the number one reason your skin ages, i.e., becomes damaged to allow the aging process to take place.

Vitamin C the Antioxidant
Broccoli is a rich source of vitamin C, a vital nutrient for the production of collagen, the protein that forms the foundation of skin cells. Vitamin C has hundreds of benefits for skin and its well-being. One of the major reasons you want to have vitamin C in your daily diet is its supportive role for other vitamins and chemical processes.

For example, Vitamin C protects and enhances the effects from Vitamin E in your body. Tougher, they play in synergy to deliver the most efficient protections to your skin.

Vitamin A the Antioxidant
Broccoli is packed with vitamin A, which aids in the repair of fine lines.

Zinc benefits for Skin
This essential micronutrient responsible for maintaining skin health is found in broccoli.

Omega fatty acids for Skin’s Anti-aging
Extracts from broccoli are rich in omega fatty acids, which are effective in retaining skin moisture. And where there’s well-moisturized skin, there’s its youthful looks. Moisture allows a more efficient circulation of nutrients in and out of skin. It protects skin from inside and outside stressors and allows for quicker and more efficient healing.

In addition to these, broccoli seed oil is also beneficial in skincare due to its anti-aging and hydrating properties.

Don’t shy away from broccoli! It’s good, it’s yummy, it gives you more variety in your daily food menu.

Here’s a simple, everyday-type of Broccoli Recipe with Garlic and Herbs.

And for those who would like to try a flavorful Roasted Lemon Broccoli with Tahini Sauce, be my guest!

Celebrate Your New Beginnings Today!

References
Mitchell, Deborah, Steam Broccoli, Add Sprouts to Boost Cancer Fighting Benefits. Emax Health, Jan 30, 2011