You Can Enjoy The Benefits Of Cruciferous Veggies Without Bloating: Here's How

Cauliflower is the veggie that keeps on giving: Be it a simple roasted job or disguised as gnocchi in the frozen aisle at Trader Joe's, we've gotten pretty used to seeing it as a staple in a healthy diet. But for some people, this cruciferous veggie comes with a side of unwanted bloating (as do Brussels sprouts, for good measure)—luckily, this doesn't mean those people can't reap the health benefits of including cruciferous vegetables in their diet.

Among their benefits, cruciferous vegetables get a lot of buzz for their potential cancer-fighting power, which LeVeque explains: "When you eat cruciferous vegetables, sulforaphane has the ability to double detoxification," she says. "You're detoxifying every hour; that's why cruciferous veggies are linked to being anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory1."

While many of the most well-known cruciferous vegetables are complex and difficult to digest, that doesn't mean they all are: "Remember that it's not just those hard-to-digest foods that can provide benefit," says LeVeque.

She recommends a simple mix for getting those benefits: "Half mixed greens and, half arugula; add radish," is her go plate to for a non-bloating portion of these powerhouse veggies.

So while you may be used to reaching for those complex veggies, you can definitely feel good about eating those alternatives: "It doesn't always have to be cauliflower rice or Brussels sprouts," she says—and if they're leading to uncomfortable bloat, then they might not be worth it all the time.