Top 8 Benefits of Broccoli during Pregnancy | Styles At Life

Broccoli is a common green vegetable coming from the Italica Cultivar group of the Brassicaceae family. It can be taken both as raw and cooked; but it is always better to steam it a bit and then stir fry. The entire part of this vegetable, including the flowery heads and the stalk, are edible. Broccoli is usually the shortened version for Calabrese broccoli, though there are other varieties, like- sprouting broccoli and purple cauliflower.

This cruciferous vegetable is known to contain a great deal of medicinal properties, such as- prevention of cancers and digestive disorders, control of cholesterol and blood pressure levels, detoxification of the body, improvement of the immune system, prevention of birth defects and skin allergies, protection against eye and visual problems, and boosting of vitamins plus mineral uptake. Broccoli also houses a variety of nutrients, such as- vitamins A, B6, C and K, potassium, selenium, magnesium, phosphorus, fibers, magnesium and tryptophan. It is also a rich source of organic ingredients (phytonutrient glucosinolates, flavonoids) and antioxidant agents.

♦ Is Broccoli Good for Pregnancy?

A healthy expecting mother should always look for the perfect diet plan. Can pregnant women eat broccoli? To answer this question and to know whether this green veggie provides you with the required nutritious components, let us scroll down to the points below:

♦ Broccoli Benefits during Pregnancy:

1. Broccoli contains high amounts of iron and folic acid. Regular intake of this vegetable helps in maintaining optimum levels of hemoglobin count, thus reducing the risks of anemia.

2. Folate in broccoli helps in the minimization of several neurological defects, such as spina bifida in your new born baby.

3. A pregnant woman is often susceptible to weakening of bones or osteoporosis. Minerals like phosphorus, calcium, zinc and magnesium in broccoli ensures that your bones remain strong and sturdy.

4. Skin related issues are a common problem in an expecting mother. Glucoraphanin and sulforaphane in Broccoli protects the skin against damage from UV rays. Presence of vitamins A, B, E and K, along with omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, and folate ensures a radiating skin and prevention of any skin related disorders.

See More: is beetroot good for pregnancy

5. Consumption of broccoli while pregnant reduces the chances of various types of cancer, both for the mother and the fetus. It has several anti-cancer ingredients, such as- glucoraphanin, diindolylmethane, beta-carotene, selenium, vitamins C, A and E, zinc, potassium and amino acids. Broccoli has been found to be especially very beneficial for uterine and breast cancers in pregnant women.

6. As per research, broccoli is also helpful in maintaining a good eye vision and preventing various eye diseases, including cataract. Vitamins A, B6, C and E, and phosphorus aids in strengthening the eyes by protecting against damage from radiations during pregnancy.

7. The several vitamins and minerals in broccoli help in improving your immune system and are thus beneficial both for the mother and her developing fetus.

See More: cabbage during pregnancy

8. Diabetes is a recurring issue in many pregnant women. The high amounts of fibers in the low sugar broccoli controls blood sugar levels, minimizes insulin intake and also prevents constipation.

Broccoli is well known for its various nutritional properties; but motherhood is delicate and you need to be extra cautious always. Never forget to check the expiry date of frozen broccoli in the shops and ensure that it is free from added preservatives or sodium. Broccoli also contains several compounds that might have adverse affects on your skin. So, be sure that you are not sensitive or allergic to this vegetable. Consume it in moderate quantities and take the advice of your healthcare provider while including this ingredient in your pregnancy diet plan.

See More: eating cauliflower during pregnancy

Image Source: Shutterstock