By Chisom Ibemere
Cauliflower is a vegetable in the specie Brassica oleracea of the Brassicaceae (or mustard) family. It is an annual plant that reproduces by seed. Basically, only the head is consumed. The head is made up of a white inflorescence meristem and it resembles those in broccoli with only the flower buds as the edible part. Species of Brassica oleracea also includes broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, collard greens, and kale etc.
Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable which is derived from the Latin word ‘caulis’, meaning cabbage with a flower. It has a lot of health benefits which may include cancer risk reduction, heart and brain disorders, relief from indigestion, supporting liver health, promote iron absorption and weight loss. It enhances eye health, maintain hormonal balance, and prevent lots of diseases.
Cauliflower is rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, folate, vitamin K, B complex vitamins, and vitamin E and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, sodium, and iron. It contains some protein, provide dietary fiber and may contain smaller amounts of natural sugars.
Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, manganese, vitamin E, which are potent antioxidants that nourishes the body. It has phytochemicals, which stimulate helpful enzymes that protect the cells from oxidative stress and damage. Indole-3-carbinol present in Cauliflower has chemopreventive and anti-estrogen properties that help in hindering the growth and development of uterine cancer cells.
Cauliflower improves blood circulation and helps to ensure proper functioning of the blood vessels, which is due to the presence of glucoraphanin. It contains dietary fibre which promotes digestion of food and eliminates waste materials and toxins. Vitamin C in cauliflower helps in the absorption of iron in the blood which helps to increase the production of hemoglobin in the body.
Cauliflower is known as a versatile vegetable with a pleasant flavour which adds low-calorie to the diet. Consuming Cauliflower would go a long way to boost the immune system and fight hosts of diseases.