Cauliflower is packed with amazing nutritional benefits that can be utilised in a range of lip-smacking delicacies.
Whether you are craving for crunchy fritters or a spicy soup or curry, this health powerhouse is a must-have in cold season.
While this vegetable is cooked in every household around this time, little is known about the side effects of cauliflower which could seriously affect some people’s health.
What makes cauliflower so healthy?
Belonging to the cruciferous vegetables family, cauliflower is particularly known for being full of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants.
People trying to manage their blood sugar or trying to cut down their carb intake can trust this wonderful veggie for improving their overall well-being. Cauliflower is also a good source of vitamin C for healthy immunity and antioxidants that may be beneficial in the prevention of cancer risks.
A medium head of cauliflower is packed with calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium to keep the bones strong, the digestive tract happy, and blood pressure well within limits; it’s also a zero-calorie vegetable, weighing in at around 25 calories per cup.
Health benefits
Of course, cauliflower’s benefits are not limited to losing weight. The cruciferous veggie also brims with fibre, which is a pleasant, easy addition to the diet and aids digestion by promoting beneficial bacteria in the gut. Vitamin C antioxidants for cells protect the cells against damage, while fibre supports digestive regularity.
In addition, cauliflower contains potassium that helps to control blood pressure, while its fibres help in reducing cholesterol levels, contributing towards heart health. Some studies also indicate that glucosinolates present in cauliflower may have anti-cancer effects.
When cauliflower may not be ideal
People with gut health issues
Cauliflower isn’t suited for everyone and people with a weak digestion should avoid having it in high portions. Like other cruciferous vegetables, it tends to cause bloating or gas to some due to its fibres.
People on blood thinners
Those on blood thinners need to be even more careful. In addition, since cauliflower is a good source of vitamin K-a factor in the blood clotting process can counteract blood-thinning drugs. It is best to contact your doctor or dietitian.
Thyroid conditions
In addition, people suffering from thyroid conditions should be on a moderate intake of cauliflower since it has a compound called goitrogens that can interfere with the uptake of iodine in the body and lead to effects in the thyroid, especially when ingested in large amounts. Heat treatment can alleviate the goitrogenic effect.
How to add cauliflower to your diet
Adding cauliflower to your diet isn’t hard at all and tastes good. Simply roast it, toss it into soups as a puréed addition, or use it as a low-carb base for a pizza crust or as a healthy substitute for mashed potatoes.
Cauliflower is a super nutritious vegetable, rich with profound health benefits from heart support to digestive health and body weight management. For others, though, conscious intake is the prevention of undesirable digestion problems or interaction with other medications. Eaten properly, cauliflower remains an excellent addition to any balanced diet.
