Broccoli is a super food that has gained a lot of prominence and regard in recent years for the large number of essential vitamins and fiber that it contains. Broccoli is especially favorable to those on a diet, as it is very low in calories.
Broccoli is very versatile and is featured in dozens of quick and easy dishes. While the vegetable is better off when it is bought fresh (texture and flavor are superior in fresh broccoli), frozen options are great for a long lasting and quickly available option.
How Much Makes a Good Serving of Broccoli?
A typical serving of raw broccoli is usually a 1/2 cup or approximately 36 grams, while a cooked serving is a similar half cup but due to water absorption will about 78 grams. It is best to eat broccoli raw as it provides less calories. Whereas a raw serving will contain about 10 calories, cooked broccoli will provide about 25 calories.
Why consume broccoli?
Why consume broccoli?One great reason for consuming broccoli regularly is the heart healthy fibre it provides. The type of fiber which makes up broccoli is soluble fiber, which helps to reduce the risk of high cholesterol and heart disease. A regular serving of broccoli contains about 1 gram of soluble fiber.
In addition to being heart healthy, broccoli is packed with vitamins A, C and many others. A single serving of broccoli will give you 60 to 80 percent of the amount of vitamin C needed daily.
The super veggie will also give you between 20 and 30 percent of daily vitamin A requirements.
While it is good for you, broccoli like any other food can become monotonous and bland over time. To spice up the vegetable, you can use it in pasta, omelette, soups and several other options.
