Cauliflower is one of the vegetables from brassica family and closely related to 
broccoli. One cup of cauliflower provides 6 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of fiber and 2 grams of protein.
Average calories: 32 per one cup.
|
Cauliflower: one cup |
|
|
Carbohydrate |
6 |
|
Fiber |
3 |
|
Protein |
2 |
|
Fat |
0 |
|
Calories |
32 |
Vitamins found in higher amounts: vitamins C, K, B9, B6 and B2.
Minerals found in higher amounts: manganese, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.
Phytonutrients found in higher amounts and their health benefits: like other vegetables from Bassica family, cauliflower contains the phytochemicals indole-3-carbinol, diindolylmethane, sulforaphane, isothiocyanates, carotenoids, and flavonoids.
Indole-3-carbinol is a phytonutrient that can reduce risk of developing estrogen-related cancers by altering the metabolism of estrogen. In fact, indole-3-carbinole is an estrogen antagonist. Indole-3-carbinole is also found in cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale and collard greens.
Diindolylmethane (DIM) comes from the breakdown of indole-3-carbinol in the body and has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-androgenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Showing angiogenesis-preventing effect, DIM shows activity against HPV (human papilloma virus) as well.
Sulforaphane can inhibit the growth of Helicobacter Pylori, a microbe responsible for peptic ulcer and stomach upset. Sulforaphane is also found in Bok Choy,Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, kale, collards, kohlrabi, mustard, turnip, radish, arugula, and watercress.
Isothiocyanates induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain cancers. However, the downside of isothiocyanides is that they interfere with uptake of iodine, leading to goiter (enlargement of thyroid gland).
Isothiocyanates can enhance liver detoxification by stimulating both phase I and phase II of detoxification process.
Beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin are the carotenoids found in significant amounts in cauliflower. They are antioxidants with protective effects on the eyes.
Anthocyanins are the other phytochemicals found in purple cauliflower. They are flavonoids with anti-inflammatory, cancer-preventing, anti-oxidative, and immune system-enhancing properties.
A low risk of prostate cancer has been linked to a high consumption of cauliflower.
