Several studies have shown
that broccoli-rich diet is beneficial to
lower the risks from prostrate and
bowel cancers. It also helps to prevent heart- related problems and stroke.
Broccoli contains the compound
glucoraphanin, which is a phytonutrient that boosts the level of antioxidant enzymes in our bodies. Glucoraphanin can be processed into
sulphoraphane, an
anti-cancer element.
Keeping all these qualities in mind a
"super broccoli" "Beneforte" was developed using conventional methods at the Food Research and John Innes Centre in Norwich, UK. The
researchers of the center went on an expedition to find better varieties of
this nutrient-laden vegetable. South Italy came across a wild type of broccoli
that was capable of producing greater levels of glucoraphanin than the traditional
variety.
The
wild variety was then
cross - pollinated with the commercially available variety. After a series of
breeding and cycles of
natural selection, one variety became the parent of what we now know as
"beneforte".
This
super veggie is reported to have
three times more of glucoraphanin in comparison to the normal variety but
the amazing part is that it has retained the
same taste of the traditional broccoli.
Broccoli
was always considered a great health food but this new research has given added
insights into its health benefits.
The
new variety of broccoli "beneforte" is now available at the Mark & Spencer
stores in the UK. It will be available in other UK stores next year!
Broccoli must be boiled for about
two to three minutes only. Over cooking kills
the valuable nutrients and antioxdants in this amazing vegetable, hence, a
gentle steaming will ensure that it retains all its glory!
Source: Medindia
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