11/13/2018
More Brussels Sprouts
A few weeks ago, we included Brussels sprouts in the post 'Eight Cool Weather Superfoods' and new there was a lot more to be said for this nutritional powerhouse. Unfortunately, they are not one of the top ten favorite veggies, but they're definitely one of the top veggies to add to your menu. Brussels sprouts are also showing up more in fine dining, so there's hope for an upsurge in there popularity yet! Brussels sprouts are a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, along with broccoli, kale, cabbage, mustard or turnip greens, and cauliflower. A single cup of Brussels sprouts offers 3 grams of protein, 4 grams of dietary fiber, are filled with the antioxidants vitamin C, A, E and the mineral manganese, and additional flavonoid antioxidants -- with the extremely low overhead of 38 calories per cup. That's just the beginning, check out some of the great benefits you gain from adding Brussels sprouts to your diet!- Reduction of cholesterol levels. Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber, which breaks down cholesterol when it attaches to the bile acids produced by the liver. The fiber is more efficient at binding with bile acids in the digestive track when cooked, preferred methods are steamed, stir-fried or or micro-waved.
- Cancer Protection. Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of glucosinolates, which break down into compounds during digestion that are believed to prevent cancer by blocking the growth of precancerous cells and regulating the hormonal activity that can lead to tumor development. Brussel sprouts are richer in glucosinolates than the other cruciferous vegetables, including cabbage, broccoli, kale and cauliflower!
- Promote Eye Health. The vitamin A found in Brussels sprouts reduces the risk of of macular degeneration and glaucoma.
- Cardiovascular Support. One of the compounds the body make from glucosinolates is sulforaphane, which spurs anti-inflammatory activity in our cardiovascular system may actually reverse blood vessel damage! Armed with sulforaphane, Brussels sprouts fight against heart attacks, ischemic heart disease, and arteriosclerosis. By lowering cholesterol, they also reduce the risk of arterial blockage.
- Brussels sprouts also contain vitamin K for healthy bones and tissue, vitamin C to protect the immune system, and folate that assists in protection of DNA and adds extra protection for the heart.
