I am growing cauliflower again this year & praying to all the gardening deities that of the 6 plants that I have put in at least 2 of them produce a bountiful harvest. Today I spent some time having a look into the nutritional make up of this delicious vegetable & I thought I would share some of it with you here.
Cauliflower, as with other Brassica’s, contains dithiolethiones which are recognised as having an anti-carcinogenic effect on some cancers. It is thought that this is due to its ability to increase glutathione levels & glutathione-associated enzyme activity which play a significant role in detoxification pathways & immune function. There is also a significant amount of vitamin C in cauliflower, adding to the replenishment of glutathione as well as supporting the immune system.
Cauliflower makes a contribution to your intake of vitamin K, folate, pantothenic acid (B5), manganese, potassium & fibre.
Another important phytochemical found in cauliflower & other Brassica’s is indole-3-carbinol, a strong antioxidant that protects against carcinogens. It is also suggested that indole-3-carbinol plays a significant role in lipid synthesis & platelet aggregation, suggesting a positive effect for people suffering from cardiovascular issues.
One of my favourite things to have with grilled tempeh is vegetable mash of potato, celariac & cauliflower. There are so many great ways to cook this wonderfully tasty vegetable, from salads to roasting.
Happy Eating!
*Alison*
References…
http://www.phytochemicals.info/phytochemicals/indole-3-carbinol.php
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2391/2
http://www.crcnetbase.com/doi/abs/10.1201/9781439832059.ch24
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