Lung Cancer "Foodie Friday" - Prevention Week - Cauliflower Salad

Even though a former U.S. president got away with skipping the broccoli, I'm glad my mom wasn't intimidated by children vastly more educated in medicine than herself. She insisted we eat cruciferous vegetables for our health, though they came in many disguises for my siblings with less refined tastes. Mom was right. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, cruciferous vegetables have several components that may lower our risk of developing cancer. Some of these components have even been shown to stop the growth of lung cancer cells – albeit in the lab.

Copyright Karin Engelbrecht

For those who sympathize with the former president Bush’s dislike of broccoli, there are other options. Vegetables classified as cruciferous include not only broccoli, but cauliflower, brussel sprouts, cabbage, bok choy, collard greens, kale, turnips, arugula, wasabi, radishes, and horseradish. One of my favorites is cauliflower, but I have always loved anything to do with flowers… What is your favorite? If anyone has tips on how to get picky eaters to eat cruciferous vegetables I would love to hear them.

This week’s recipe is contributed by someone who has earned my greatest respect – for her ability to make healthy food taste fantastic. Karin Engelbrecht, our own About.com Guide to Dutch Food. Enjoy!

Cauliflower Salad

Further Reading:

Diet and Cancer Prevention

_Source:

American Institute for Cancer Research. Foods That Fight Cancer. Cruciferous Vegetables. Accessed 09/09/08. http://www.aicr.org/site/PageServer?pagename=dc_foods_cruciferous