Cauliflower: Experts weigh in on health benefits, nutrition facts, and more

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Published: 26 January 2023 | Written by Super User | Hits: 3684

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Cauliflower image© Provided by Getty Images

Perspective from Faith Seke

Benefits

Cauliflower helps in reducing the risk of digestive problems. It contains fiber that may help in preventing digestive conditions like, constipation and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Cauliflower is effective in reducing the risks of chronic illnesses. Just like any other cruciferous vegetables, it contains antioxidants such as carotenoids and flavonoids which help in protecting the body cells from harmful free radicals.

Possible Side Effects

Cauliflower is rich in fiber and excessive consumption might cause bloating, flatulence and digestive problems.

Cauliflower can help in weight loss. Cauliflower is a source of dietary fiber, which helps keeping the feeling of satiety for a longer time. Also, cauliflower is low in calories, in 100 grams of the vegetable there are only 16 calories.
Cauliflower may prevent cardiovascular diseases. The vegetable is rich in soluble and insoluble fiber and potassium. These substances help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, help lower blood pressure and keep blood vessels healthy.
Cauliflower has anti-inflammatory properties. The vegetable is a source of antioxidants such as vitamin C, which protect cells from the free radicals and fight inflammation. That is an important property, since chronic, low-level inflammation can lead to diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer and cancer.
Cauliflower protects our brain. Cauliflower is rich in choline, b-complex vitamins and vitamin K, which are essential nutrients for brain development and the production of neurotransmitters necessary for a healthy nervous system.

Possible Side Effects

Cruciferous vegetables as cauliflowers have compounds that can interfere with thyroid function. These compounds have the ability to block the use and absorption of iodine. Thus, patients with a tendency to develop thyroid dysfunction need to consume the vegetable with moderation.
Cauliflower as well as other brassica vegetables can cause gas and intestinal disorders when consumed in excess.
Cauliflower is a source of vitamin K and patients taking blood clotting drugs should consult a doctor before increasing their cauliflower intake.

Reference: Microsoft health: Story by Faith Seke, PhD, Agronomy