Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable and are closely related to cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower. Brussels sprouts are heavily recognized for their nutrient density along with their health promoting properties.
These vegetables are garnering a lot of attention due to their phytochemicals and anti-cancer properties. Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin C. They are also a very good source of dietary fiber, protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, vitamin B6, folate, dietary fiber, potassium, iron and manganese.
Protection against Cancer
Brussels sprouts, as with other cruciferous vegetables, contains the phytonutrients sulforaphane and isothiocyanates, which have significant anti-cancer effects. Glucosinolates are also anti-oxidant compounds that help eliminate carcinogens from the system. These phytonutrients help reduce tumour growth and reduce cancer cell metastasis.
Sulforaphanes help remove toxins from the body, including cancer causing compounds. Isothiocyanates help destroy carcinogens and help stop cancer cell division. Cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts may help reduce the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Brussels sprouts have also been shown to reduce damage beyond the cellular level and may help protect DNA structure.
Helps Cell Detoxification
The phytonutrients in broccoli help improve the detoxification capabilities of the body, specifically at the cellular level. Cells are better able to help neutralize and get rid of damaging free radicals, toxins, and cancer causing compounds.
Lowering Inflammation
Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of Vitamin C. This antioxidant, along with vitamin E, actively neutralizing free radicals and helps reduce inflammation within the body. This makes Vitamin C and vitamin E help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Reduce Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Vitamin C also plays a role in decreasing cardiovascular damage. Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals in the body. Free radicals directly damage blood vessels and can cause cholesterol to build up in artery walls; therefore, vitamin C can be helpful in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis and heart disease.
Folate promotes the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that a deficiency of folate, which causes the accumulation of the amino acid homocysteine in the body, significantly increases the risk for heart disease. Homocysteine promotes atherosclerosis by promoting the deterioration of arterial walls as well as promoting blood clot formation.
Preventing Birth Defects
The adequate intake of folate (a B vitamin commonly known as folic acid in supplement form) is critical in the prevention of birth defects, such as neural tube defect. Folate consumption is critical for women who are regnant or planning on becoming pregnant. Folate deficiency is associated with the increase risk of birth defects, such as neural tube defect and Spina Bifida.
Anti-Oxidants and Flavonoids
Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of phytonutrients with anti-oxidant activity. Anti-oxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, play a role in decreasing cardiovascular damage. These beneficial compounds neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals directly damage blood vessels and can cause cholesterol to build up in artery walls; therefore, anti-oxidants can be helpful in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis, stroke, heart disease and arthritis.
High Source of Fiber
Brussels sprouts are a source of dietary fiber. Fiber may help with weight management, as well as keep your digestive health in check. Fiber also acts to prevent constipation, help lower cholesterol levels, reduce cancer risk, as well as relieve other gastro-intestinal issues. Specifically, consuming regular amounts of high fiber foods, such as Brussels sprouts, may help reduce cancer risk.
[...] it. I am not thinking cucumber, tomatoes and bell pebers, but the more fibrous ones like eg. brussel sprouts. I have read many places that brussel sprouts is a good diet food. After eating this salad last [...]