Cauliflower Power

Morning, as we move into winter I've found myself having more stews and casseroles for evening meals, loving the warm fuzzy feelings these winter comfort foods bring.  It's also a good way at getting more fresh veg into the diet.  Parsnips, carrots, leaks are just a few staples that I find myself retreating to as well cauliflower which when you read up on it is really healthy & beneficial too.

Cauliflower, which like broccoli is a member of the cruciferous family, contains an impressive array of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other phytochemicals. It's a good source of vitamin K, protein, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, fibre  vitamin B6, folate, pantothenic acid, potassium and manganese.
Cauliflower is also packed with natural antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, kaempferol, quercetin, rutin, cinnamic acid and others. Antioxidants are nature's way of providing your cells with adequate defence against attack by excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species. As long as you have these important micronutrients, your body will be better equipped to resist damage caused by everyday exposures to pollutants, chronic stress and more.
Without an adequate supply of antioxidants to help squelch excess free radicals you raise your risk of oxidative stress, which leads to accelerated tissue and organ damage. Adding to cauliflower's appeal is its versatility. You can eat it raw, add it to salads or use it in your cooking. Cauliflower can even be seasoned and mashed as an alternative to potatoes or made into rice.

Fighting cancer
Cauliflower contains the cancer-fighting compounds sulforaphane and isothiocyanates, the former of which has been shown to kill cancer stem cell responsible for metastasis or spread of cancer.

Boosting heart health
Sulforaphane in cauliflower also helps improve blood pressure and kidney function. Scientists believe sulforaphane's benefits are related to improved DNA methylation, which is crucial for normal cellular function and proper gene expression, especially in the easily damaged inner lining of the arteries (endothelium).

Lower inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of most diseases.  Cauliflower contains ingredients which eases inflammation at the cellular level.

Brain health booster
B vitamin Choline is known for aiding brain development, cognitive function, learning & memory. 

Supports detoxification
Aids digestion
Cauliflower is a source of fibre as well as containing nutrients that protect the stomach lining by not allowing bad bacteria to cling to the stomach wall.

Til next week
MB