Here's the veggie family that can maximize your nutrient intake. The brassica family includes broccoli, kale, cabbage, cauliflower and brussel sprouts. The disesases they help fight off include cancer, heart disease, diabetes and hypertension. The nutrients in them also help fight off acne, yeast infections, and improve brain function and blood circulation. In addition to Vitamins C and K, potassium, fiber, folic acid, beta-carotene and calcium, brassicas also have high levels of phytochemicals.
Phytochemicals are non-nutritive, but protect our health in lots of ways.
Some protect our cells from self-destructing, others help us heal from injury faster, or protect our arteries. Indoles, isothiocyanates and dithiolthiones are all components that help our bodies to function at their best and prevent various cancers. Broccoli packs a big punch with the most powerful phytochemical, called sulforaphane. This compound is formed when other components in broccoli is broken down by cutting, chewing or chopping. It helps against all forms of cancer, including bladder, prostate and stomach cancer.