We have all heard how great broccoli is for you, and our mothers have been telling us to eat it for years. But exactly what is so great about this green vegetable and what is it doing for us?

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a paper that listed foods most likely to prevent colon cancer, and broccoli came up first against all other foods. Scientists at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston also published an article in the same journal last October and noted that broccoli was extremely successful in preventing cataracts. Furthermore, broccoli contains more Vitamin C than an orange, and more calcium than a glass of milk, even though both foods have a reputation for being the “go to” foods for both of these vitamins & minerals. If this doesn’t give broccoli enough bragging rights, it can also be noted that this veggie is an extremely high source of Vitamin A, fiber, and enzymes which neutralize potential cancer causing substances before they can cause damage to any healthy cells. If no matter how much good you hear about broccoli you are still a hater, you can rest assured that other foods in the cruciferous vegetable family provide some of these benefits-these foods include cauliflower, kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy. Another great option is taking a daily Broccoli Concentrate supplement , which harnesses the power of broccoli in caplet form.

Working broccoli into your diet is not as hard as it seems, and you don’t need to eat a ton to reap the benefits. Adding some to pastas, soups, salads, and even stir fries are sure fire ways to get your servings in. For more basic broccoli recipes click here.