Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that is packed with plant compounds called glucosinolates.
Glucosinolates are converted into isothiocyanates in the body, and studies have found that isothiocyanates may help in the prevention of cancer by decreasing the risk of cancer cells forming and promoting the natural death of cancerous cells.
In a study conducted by the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, researchers found that broccoli consumption was associated with a lower risk of several types of cancer, including prostate, colon, breast, and lung cancer.
Broccoli was found to be particularly effective in reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Control Cholesterol with Oats
Oats are a type of cereal grain that is rich in a soluble fiber called beta-glucan. Beta-glucan has been found to be effective in lowering cholesterol levels in the body.
It does this by binding to cholesterol and removing it from the body through the digestive system.
A study conducted by the University of Kentucky found that individuals who consumed oat bran daily experienced a significant reduction in their cholesterol levels.
The study also found that the cholesterol-lowering effects of oat bran were most effective in individuals with high cholesterol levels.
Ward off Dementia with Blueberries
Blueberries are a type of fruit that is rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins. These antioxidants may help to protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals.
Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage the cells in the body, including those in the brain.
A study conducted by the University of Cincinnati found that individuals who consumed blueberries daily experienced an improvement in cognitive performance.
The study also found that the cognitive benefits of blueberries were most effective in older adults, who are at a higher risk of developing dementia.
Other Foods that Help Prevent Cancer
In addition to broccoli, there are several other foods that have been found to help in the prevention of cancer. These include:.
- Tomatoes – contain lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect against prostate and breast cancer
- Berries – contain anthocyanins and other antioxidants that may help protect against several types of cancer
- Grapes – contain resveratrol, a plant compound that may help protect against several types of cancer
- Garlic – contains organosulfur compounds that may help protect against stomach and colorectal cancer
Other Foods that Help Control Cholesterol
In addition to oats, there are several other foods that have been found to help in the control of cholesterol. These include:.
- Beans and legumes – are high in soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels
- Nuts – are high in heart-healthy fats that can help lower cholesterol levels
- Fatty fish – are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower triglyceride levels and improve cholesterol levels
- Avocado – is high in heart-healthy fats that can help lower LDL cholesterol levels
Other Foods that Help Ward off Dementia
In addition to blueberries, there are several other foods that have been found to help in the warding off of dementia. These include:.