20 Jun Power Food Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Bites

Start your week with this week’s Power Food, Broccoli! Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of the United States, was a fan of broccoli, importing the seeds from Italy to plant at Monticello. He recorded planting the vegetable there as early as May of 1767. Although it may be known as the “golden state”, California produces 90% of our nations broccoli. There is no sign for broccoli in American Sign Language (you just have to spell it out). Broccoli belongs to the family of cruciferous vegetables which also includes cauliflower, kale, cabbage and Brussels sprouts. Cross-breeding some of these vegetables have given rise to newer versions of broccoli. The broccoflower, for instance, looks like a pale green-colored cauliflower with a broccoli taste. Another vegetable, broccolini, is a hybrid developed from broccoli and Chinese kale.

Health Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is extremely good for the health. It has Vitamin K, as well as the minerals calcium, potassium, and iron. In addition, it contains phytochemicals that are known to detoxify the body and prevent many types of diseases, including cancer. It is also anti-inflammatory and can help lower cholesterol levels. Vitamin K helps to prevent hardening of the arteries, which is a common factor in coronary artery disease and heart failure. Research suggests vitamin K may help to keep calcium out of your artery linings and other body tissues, that can cause damage.

Unique Healthy Snack or Appetizer Broccoli Cheddar Bites

Broccoli can be hard to work into your children’s diet, but try Broccoli Cheddar Bites and change their minds forever! Follow this recipe from Simply Recipes for your child and you to add this nutritious veggie to your diets!