Broccoli: Regulates The Blood Sugar Levels

Blood Sugar

This time you wouldn’t want to pass up on some broccoli servings. Yes, you cannot afford to miss this veggie especially when you’ve got high blood sugar levels. Broccoli contains nutritional elements that help regulate sugar in the bloodstream to control metabolic disorders such as diabetes.

For sure you might be wondering why broccoli seems to be a wonder veggie in controlling your blood sugar. Thanks to the key nutrients made available on this green and leafy vegetable from the cabbage family. In case you haven’t heard yet, veggies are best known for their body regulating functions made possible by its vitamin and mineral contents. 

What makes broccoli special is its Sulforaphane content. The compound has been popular for its ability to reduce high concentration of molecules that can trigger cell damage thereafter. In effect, it facilitates reduction of glucose into the bloodstream that brings out high sugar levels to protect blood vessels from getting damaged that may lead to cardiac arrest or stroke.

Although veggies are known for the starch component, Broccoli contains minimal amount. Instead, it has generous amount of dietary fiber that can defer absorption of carbohydrates into the bloodstream by slowing down the digestion process. The same also averts craving for starchy delights that can further boost blood sugar levels. As a result, it promotes healthy eating habits.

Broccoli is also rich in carotenoids which are not only beneficial as antioxidants. Based on studies conducted by Earl S. Ford, an Epidemiologist, there exists a link between these compounds and diabetes. As a matter of fact, high concentration of beta carotene in the blood has been associated with healthy sugar levels. In contrast, diabetics had only 80% of beta carotene on healthy individuals. Besides, carotenoids are also responsible in eradicating free radicals that may hamper insulin absorption to regulate blood glucose.

As a green and leafy veggie, broccoli is nonetheless abundant in Vitamin B-Complex. According to Dr. Carlton Fredericks, generous intake of Vitamin B-Complex may help diabetics ultimately do away with insulin. Perhaps, it is ascribed to the fact that B-Vitamins can regulate blood glucose levels. For instance, Thiamin (Vitamin B1) aids in converting glucose into energy. 

Vitamin content is but not limited to Vitamin B, broccoli also contains Vitamin C. Citric acid has been proven effective in preventing blood vessel damage as a consequence of diabetes. Studies also revealed that high doses of Vitamin C, at least 1000mg daily, tend to control blood sugar levels. Another extra advantage is that this micronutrient favours weight loss since relatively lower insulin level translates to lesser fat storage.

Vitamin

Many different minerals useful in regulating blood sugar are found in broccoli. These may include calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. Calcium works wonders in weight loss by burning fatty acids rather than storing them. Consequently, lowering fat levels in the bloodstream stimulates insulin absorption that is commonly hampered by obesity. The same holds true in the three other essential minerals.

Sure, you better not pass up on regular broccoli servings in your meals to regulate your blood sugar!