How Many Calories in Steamed Broccoli?

Steamed broccoli is a healthy and delicious vegetable option that can be enjoyed as a side dish or added to a variety of meals. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it is also low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. In this article, we will take a closer look at the calorie content of steamed broccoli and discuss the many health benefits it provides.

First, let’s talk about the calorie content of steamed broccoli. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one cup of steamed broccoli contains 55 calories. This is a relatively low calorie count, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight. Additionally, steamed broccoli is a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it a great choice for those following a calorie-controlled diet.

In addition to its low calorie content, steamed broccoli is also packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. For example, one cup of steamed broccoli contains over 100% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that helps protect the body against harmful free radicals. It also contains vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting, and vitamin A, which is essential for healthy eyesight. Steamed broccoli is also a good source of folate, which is essential for healthy cell growth and development, and potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure.

Another great thing about steamed broccoli is that it is also rich in phytochemicals, which are plant compounds that have been shown to have a variety of health benefits. These phytochemicals include sulforaphane, which has been shown to have anti-cancer properties, and indole-3-carbinol, which has been shown to help balance estrogen levels in the body.

Steamed broccoli also has a high level of antioxidants that can help protect against chronic diseases. These antioxidants, including Vitamin C and Vitamin A, can neutralize harmful free radicals, which can lead to cell damage. They may also help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

Steamed broccoli is also a great food for people trying to maintain a healthy weight. Its low-calorie content and high fiber content make it a great choice for those looking to lose weight. The fiber in steamed broccoli can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can help prevent overeating. Additionally, the high levels of vitamins and minerals in steamed broccoli can help keep you feeling healthy and energized, which can make it easier to stick to a weight loss plan.

In addition to its many health benefits, steamed broccoli is also incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be steamed and served as a side dish, added to soups and stews, or even used as a pizza topping. It can also be blended into a puree and added to pasta sauces or dips.

In conclusion, steamed broccoli is a healthy and delicious vegetable option that is packed with nutrients and low in calories. It is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet and weight, and its versatility makes it a great addition to a variety of meals. Whether you’re looking to boost your intake of vitamins and minerals, protect against chronic diseases, or simply enjoy a tasty and healthy side dish, steamed broccoli is an excellent choice.