Cauliflower Nutrition Facts

Cauliflower belongs to the Brassica Oleracea species of vegetables. It also includes broccoli, collard greens, kale, Brussels sprout, and cabbage. So, it shares lineage with these vegetables. In fact, broccoli and cauliflower are very similar in composition.

The origin of this vegetable can be traced back to Northeast Mediterranean region. From there, it spread to various parts of the world and now it's cultivated around the globe. It's a nutritious vegetable with many health benefits.

Here is cauliflower's nutritional breakdown.

• Carbohydrates: 5 gm
• Sugars: 2.4 gm
• Fat: 0 gm
• Protein: 2 gm
• Thiamin (Vitamin B1): 0.057 mg
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 0.063 mg

• Niacin (Vitamin B3): 0.53 mg
• Pantothenic acid (B5): 0.65 mg
• Vitamin B6: 0.22 mg
• Folate (Vitamin B9): 57 μg
• Vitamin C: 46 mg
• Calcium: 22 mg
• Iron: 0.44 mg
• Magnesium: 15 mg
• Phosphorus: 44 mg
• Potassium: 300 mg
• Zinc: 0.28 mg

The compilation of facts presented here, is based on years of worldwide research.

• The chemical called 'Allicin', present in cauliflower helps in maintaining heart health. It has also been found to reduce the risk of strokes in heart patients.
• The presence of vitamin C and selenium helps in strengthening the immune system of the body.

• Regular consumption helps in maintaining the cholesterol level of the body.
• It is rich in a nutrient called folate, that helps in improving cell growth and the cell replication mechanism. Overall, it aids tissue growth.
• The high fiber content in this vegetable, helps in improving colon health and reduces the possibility of cancer.

• Recent research has revealed that it contains some phytochemicals, which aid in reducing the risk of certain cancers, of the hereditary type.
• It has been found to be an excellent liver and blood detoxifier. This is because, the thiocyanates and glucosinolates present in it, aid in increasing the liver's ability, to neutralize potentially toxic substances.

• It contains a substance called Sulforaphane, which can effectively remove chemicals that cause cancer in the body. This substance also aids in preventing the spread of cancerous cells, that is metastasis, even in advanced stages of cancer. This chemical is released when you chop or chew it.

• Very recently, it was found that a chemical called 'indole-3-carbinol', found in it, can effectively prevent the development of breast cancer, because it works as an anti-estrogen agent.

• Regular consumption can aid patients, who are afflicted with diseases like asthma, arthritis, kidney, bladder disorders, constipation, and high blood pressure.
• A regular and high intake reduces the risk of prostate cancer.
• It is an ideal ingredient for a low-carb diet as it does not contain starch.

Vegetables like cauliflower, stuffed with so many nutrients, again underline the importance of a vegan diet and add one more reason for converting to veganism.