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4 reasons to opt for broccolini over broccoli for your veggie fix

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Think broccolini is just fancy broccoli? Think again! This veggie is a powerhouse with benefits that go beyond its sweeter, milder taste. Source: Getty Images.

Often dismissed as just a pricey version of broccoli, broccolini actually offers a range of health benefits that its more common cousin can’t match.

Compared to the sometimes bitter flavour of broccoli, broccolini is more mild, with a sweeter, earthy taste.  In addition to its great taste, broccolini contains vitamins A, C, K, calcium, folate and iron. Did you know that 85g of broccolini equals up to 3 grams of protein, which is higher than broccoli with only 2.8g in 100g and rice, which only has 2.6g of protein per 100g.

Broccolini is also a lot quicker to cook. And if you’re searching for an immunity boost, try incorporating broccolini into your diet for these four reasons.

Skin benefits

Skin creams out, broccolini in!  Broccolini actually contains beta-carotene, which is found in most skin creams. What is it? Beta-carotene is an orangey-red pigment abundant in fruits and plants that converts into the all-essential vitamin A. As you might already know, vitamin A plays a vital role in maintaining healthy vision and skin. This amazing vegetable also contains phytochemicals such as sulforaphane, which is an anti-cancer compound.

Liver detox

Broccolini is rich in indole 3 carbinol, which is fantastic for the liver. It’s actually an enzyme that assists with liver detoxification and in turn, promotes hormonal balance.

Immunity kick

Need an immunity boost? Broccolini is high in vitamins A and C, which are key anti-ageing vitamins that help fight off inflammation and keep the immune system strong. Broccolini is also packed with essential nutrients, as well as potassium for the heart and dietary fibres that are essential in the fight against obesity, heart disease, diabetes and ulcers.

Gut healer

Did you know that a good gut provides the foundation of a healthy body? High in fibre, broccolini is a fantastic gut healer. How? Fibre helps to feed the good bacteria in your digestive system and acts as a prebiotic for the gut. Fibre aids in digestion, prevents constipation and maintains a good level of blood sugar.

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.

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