4 September 2015
What Is So Special About Cauliflower?
Though a bland vegetable, cauliflower is a superfood though not many of us are aware of this.
Cauliflower provides an amazing array of vitamins and minerals, and a large range of antioxidants, that not many superfoods can boast of, along with a healthy dose of fiber. These nutrients benefit our immune, nervous, skeletal, cardiovascular, muscular, digestive and other body systems besides reducing risk of deadly diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes among others. Read on to know more about cauliflower and the health benefits it provides us... About CauliflowerLatin Name : Brassica oleraceae.
In India, Cauliflower is called Phool Gobhi. The wild cauliflower is native to Asia, from where; around 600 BC, it spread to the Mediterranean, especially; Turkey and Italy. It reached Northern Europe and France in the mid 16th century and later on spread to other countries. Cauliflower has a compact head made up of numerous, undeveloped, flower buds. The heads are creamy white in color as the surrounding leaves protect it from sunlight, preventing the development of chlorophyll. To maintain this whiteness, the surrounding leaves are tied over the head. Cauliflower is also available in light green, yellow and purple colors. The head of cauliflower is called a curd. Apart from the head, the leaves are also edible and this includes the tender leaf stalk. Nutrients In Cauliflower
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Here are some recipes you might like to try
Cauliflower Manchurian Recipe
How to Make Garlic Roasted Cauliflower In Oven
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Health Benefits Of CauliflowerCauliflower contains phytonutrients that release sulphur compounds when heated. Some phytochemicals react with iron and aluminium cookware, causing browning of the vegetable. A little lemon added to the water used for blanching the cauliflower will prevent this discoloration.
However it is best not to use iron or aluminium cookware. Also, allowing the cut cauliflower to sit for 5 minutes after cutting will increase its health benefits. Cooking cauliflower by steaming it rather than boiling it in water reduces its gas forming ability. Some of the health benefits of cauliflower are as under.
The combined effect of these benefits makes cauliflower an excellent risk reducer for a variety of cancers; of the breast, colon, ovary, prostate and bladder.
Also, the omega 3 fats exhibit anti inflammatory activity and help in preventing cardiovascular disease.
The isothiocyanates also reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Some Natural Remedies With CauliflowerCauliflower consumption is useful in these conditions. Use as suggested.
Precautions
References - Read more at these links
DisclaimerThe information provided in this hub is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician, or health care provider before taking any home remedies, supplements or starting a new health regime.
Some Other Healthy Food Articles By The Author
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Spicy Tandoori Cauliflower - Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipe
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