Page 11 - The Brain Health Guide

THE BRAIN HEALTH GUIDE
they contain a certain phytochemical that cannot be found in
supplements.

Although earlier research published by the Pauling Institute
at Oregon State University (and supported by the National
Institutes of Health) postulated that compounds found in
cruciferous vegetables like the ones mentioned above could just
as easily be obtained by supplements, the truth is that this is not
possible.
Everyone needs certain whole foods, which should be cooked
only lightly. Although some nutrients, such as folic acid, can be
better absorbed by taking a supplement, the compounds that
give vegetables their health value must be obtained from the
vegetables themselves.

A certain enzyme must be present in order for people to benefit
from the maximum nutrient value of vegetables; it cannot be
found in supplements. Without these enzymes, the absorption
rate of the nutrients is about five to eight times less. Overcooking
is also harmful. If broccoli is cooked until it becomes mushy,
the health value of the vegetable declines significantly.

Broccoli should be cooked for two to three minutes; otherwise,
steam it until it's still somewhat crunchy. We have focused on
broccoli here since it contains the highest levels of certain
phytochemicals that could reduce the risk of future health
issues.

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