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Choose Crucifers For Your Health

With research playing a vital role in the prevention of cancer, scientists are continuing to look more at what we eat to help prevent cancer. Through this research scientists are advocating that some foods may protect against cancer. High on the list are the group of vegetables known as crucifers.

Cruciferous vegetables derive their name from the shape of their flowers, which have four petals in the shape of a cross. Some vegetables that are members of this cabbage family include: bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, radishes, turnips and many greens such as Chinese cabbage, turnip greens, mustard greens, and more.

These vegetables are low in calories, and high in vitamins A and C, fibers, enzymes, calcium and iron. Additionally, they contain plant compounds called phytochemicals that appear to have cancer-fighting properties.

Results from a study at UCLE Medical Center showed that men and women who consumed 3.7 cups of broccoli a week were 50% less likely to develop colorectal caner than those who never ate broccoli. So try to eat cruciferous vegetables 2-3 times a week.

For information on purchasing and cooking cruciferous vegetables check out the Food Preparation Web Page.