Benefits Of Brussels Sprouts

brussel-sprouts-pdBenefits Of Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts belong to the Brassica family of plants and are a vegetable that bears similarity to a mini-cabbage. This mini cabbage has a diameter of about one inch and grow in bunches. Each bunch contains about 20 to 40 Brussels on the stem and the height of the plant is approximately two to three feet. When cooked perfectly Brussels sprouts have a dense, crisp texture, are bright green color and have a slightly sweet taste. They are usually added in the preparation of cold salads and also make an excellent side dish. Brussel sprouts are an extremely nourishing food and have numerous benefits to our health:

1.Rich source of vitamin C
This small vegetable is a rich source of vitamin C. The raw vegetable contains very high quantities of vitamin C whereas it loses some of it while it is cooked. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant for the body and prevents it from the harmful effect of free radicals that are formed as a result of several metabolic reactions taking place in the body.

2.Help to prevent cancer
Brussels sprouts help to protect the body against fatal diseases like breast cancer, colon cancer and prostate cancer.Â’ This is because they contain rich amounts of antioxidants and Glucosinolates which cease the development of cancer cells in the body.

3.Excellent source of fiber
Brussels sprouts contain good quantities of fiber. Fiber is a very essential nutrient and is required to keep the body healthy. It helps to maintain a good digestive system, regulate the levels of cholesterol and blood sugar, and fight cancer. Sufficient quantities of fiber help in the proper bowel movements and prevent problems like constipation.

4.Aids in the detoxification of the body.
Brussels sprouts are rich in sulforaphane-a potent phytonutrient that increases the release of detoxification enzymes in the body. Due to the presence of this compound it helps in clearing the potentially carcinogenic substances quickly and prevents the body from their harmful effects.

5.Provides folic acid to the body.
Intake of Brussels sprouts provides the body with folic acid. This compound is especially important for pregnant women as folic acid is essential for the development of nervous system in the developing fetus.

6.Protects from inflammatory diseases.
Brussels sprouts, provide protection against many inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.

They are also rich in vitamin A and beta carotene which make this vegetable even more important for our system. So try to include these wonder sprouts in your diet and keep yourself healthy and fit.

Leave a Comment