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Consuming broccoli has become a trend among various people, from health nutritionists to influencers on social media. The reason for its popularity is mainly its abundant nutrients.
Broccoli is associated with a species also known as Brassicaceae. This species also comprises other vegetables, including cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and many more.
1. What Is Acid Reflux?
A term usually linked with acid reflux is Gastroesophageal Disease (GERD). However, both are slightly different. Acid reflux can occur occasionally, mainly as a result of the acidic juice in your stomach going back into the esophagus.
This can be attributed to your food; however, GERD is slightly more severe. 20% of the U.S. population is a victim of GERD.
2. Is Broccoli Favourable in Acid Reflux?
Broccoli is listed under cruciferous vegetables or, as most people call it, dark green vegetables. It has acquired fame of its own in recent times.
Many health specialists always include broccoli as the most productive vegetable in curing acid reflux, mainly because of the nutrients and bioactive compounds. Nutrients like vitamin C, E, and phenolics provide antioxidative aspects that help prevent acid reflux symptoms. In addition, broccoli also has a low pH value, making it alkaline. This helps in balancing out the high pH in our stomachs.
Other nutrients and compounds associated with broccoli are:
- Glucosinolates
- Sulforaphane
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Carbs, including fiber and sugar
- Manganese
- Iron
3. Health Benefits of Broccoli Apart from Acid Reflux
3.1 Aiding Digestion
It is believed that adding broccoli to your diet is the right decision you will make due to several health benefits that also include a healthy digestive system. Besides that, a study even states that broccoli has an interrelation with colorectal cancer due to the presence of dietary fiber in it.
This is why consuming broccoli is considered favorable for your health. Apart from its fiber content, it also reduces the possibility of constipation and assists in overall gut health.
3.2 Lowers the Risk of Cancer
Cruciferous vegetables are eminently known for their anti-cancer characteristics, which are attributed to the presence of certain bioactive compounds in broccoli. This has come to the attention of most researchers in terms of cancer prevention.
Bioactive compounds like sulforaphane are the most potent components that help combat breast, prostate, colon, and oral cancers.
It was also found that the increase in body fat also elevates cancer risk.
3.3 Boosts Immune System
As we know, aging causes our immune system to lose its potential to combat various diseases. A strong immune system is important for fighting various diseases because dietary antioxidants have been proven to be advantageous for the immune system. Broccoli ensures that our immune system is protected and strengthened by taking help from the vitamin C components present in it. In addition to that, it also assists in producing collagen, healing wounds, and absorption of iron.
3.4 Lowering the Risk of Heart Disease
A study on broccoli consumption observed that consuming broccoli 1-2 times a week resulted in a 32%-43% lower death rate from cardiovascular disease or cancer. Broccoli has antioxidating and anti-inflammatory aspects that are quite effective in lowering heart disease. In addition, the fiber in it also helps support pressure, lower roll, and balance balances.
3.5 Lowering the Risk of Heart Disease
A study on the interrelation of broccoli with diabetes concluded that 10.5% of the total population worldwide has diabetes. Moreover, fruits and vegetables are taken into consideration, mainly due to their effect in lowering diabetes, taking help from the bioactive compounds present in them, including sulfur compounds, glucosinolates, and glucoraphanin in large amounts. Broccoli is among other cruciferous vegetables that help prevent metabolic diseases, including cancer and diabetes.
3.6 Lowering Inflammation
Severe acid reflux sometimes worsens the Inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract. However, a compound found in broccoli known as sulforaphane is claimed to have anti-inflammatory properties in which the compound reduces cytokines. Cytokines are molecules that cause Inflammation in the body. This is why doctors usually suggest broccoli if you suffer from acid reflux symptoms as well.
Final Words
Broccoli is used for many purposes, and it carries several health benefits. Health concerns like acid reflux symptoms, which include belching, nausea, and heartburn, are lowered with the consumption of broccoli. In addition, many studies have proven that broccoli effectively prevents cancer, diabetes, and other health-related concerns. Nutritionists are often advised to add broccoli to your meal plan as well. This way, you will get the required nutrients in your body, which will help you maintain your health.
Last Updated on by AnoushkaRoy
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