Cruciferous Vegetables and Health Facts

In the recent years, research on cruciferous vegetables has increased significantly. Many wonderful and nutritious vegetables like broccoli and cabbage do belong to this group of vegetables.  Cruciferous vegetables are also called brassica vegetables and they are extremely popular worldwide. If we look at the scientific groupings of cruciferous vegetables then we can see that they are divided in two parts - Brassica oleracea and Brassica campestris.

Cruciferous vegetables are so popular all over the world because of their nutritional value. In terms of nutrients this group of vegetables probably has no competitors at all. Cruciferous vegetables are extremely rich in vitamins and minerals. They are excellent sources of Vitamin K, B Vitamins (Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5 and Vitamin B6), Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin A. Additionally, they are equally potent source of iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, zinc, protein, omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber.

Some of the most popular and nutritious cruciferous vegetables are including Kale, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Turnip greens, Mustard greens, Collard greens, Bok choy, Brussels sprouts, Arugula and Land cress.

Kale and collard greens are excellent sources of Vitamin K. Vitamin K is known as cancer preventive vitamin and also helps to regulate our inflammatory response. Cruciferous vegetables as said above are great source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C and manganese. The high amounts of these three nutrients in cruciferous vegetables make it a great antioxidant vegetable group. Cruciferous vegetables are very good source of dietary fiber and good for the digestive support. They are also very good sources of protein and lower the risk of certain cancers. These vegetables are renowned for their phytonutrients as well. Cruciferous vegetables are blessed with phytonutrients- glucosinolates. Glucosinolates are known for cancer prevention properties. Once converted into other molecules called isothiocyanates, the glucosinolates can lower the risk of certain cancers significantly.

Cruciferous vegetables are great for health and very famous for their role in the prevention of cancer. Besides, these vegetables have lots of other health benefits and highly rich in important vitamins and minerals. Most vegetables of this group are also low in fat and calories. It’s a good idea to add more cruciferous vegetables in your diet to get maximum benefits from them.