Do You Absolutely Hate Broccoli?

If so, it may well be because of your genes according to an article at SBS.com. Particular genes determine whether you can detect a bitter chemical (called PTC) in broccoli and other brassicas like cauliflower and brussels sprouts.

“On average, about 70% of us can taste something bitter in broccoli or PTC, but those with two copies of the bitter sensitivity gene are closer to 20%, and they are much more likely to hate it.”

U.S. President George H.W. Bush said in March 1990, “I do not like broccoli. And I haven’t liked it since I was a little kid and my mother made me eat it. And I’m President of the United States and I’m not going to eat any more broccoli!” He banned it on Air Force One.

Most of us at the Parker Compound like broccoli. My wife usually sautes it in olive oil and seasons with garlic, other herbs, and salt.

Steve Parker, M.D.