Fruits and vegetables are good for overall health, and a newly funded study at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI) may show that certain vegetables, such as broccoli, also offer protection against prostate cancer.

The name "broccoli" comes from the Italian, "brocco," meaning arm or branch. The cluster of green flowerbuds branches from a thick green stem, with additional small clusters sprouting from the stem at the attachment of the leaves. Broccoli is a close relative to cauliflower and somewhat related to cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and kale.

Broccoli is high in vitamins A, C, and niacin, iron, and calcium, low in calories (about 28 calories per 3-1/2 ounce serving), and is good for the elimination system as it is a great source of fibre. Broccoli also contains some chromium and selenium and research shows that organically grown produce contains significantly higher levels of minerals.