Brussels sprouts is not among the most favorite food of many people, but the health benefits that it brings can change the view of those people. Oven roasted Brussels sprouts have a sweet, almost nutty flavor and crunchy, while sulfur-like flavor that people basically do not like is reduced. Brussels sprouts is with surprisingly high protein content of leaf vegetable. Only a portion of it provides the daily needs of the body of vitamins C and K. Brussels sprouts are from cruciferous family, which also includes kale, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage usually. All these vegetables are rich in nutrients and at the same time with fewer calories.
This vegetable is among the 20 foods containing the most nutrients in the world.
The amount of a glass raw sprouts – about 88 g, contains only 38 calories, 0 grams of fat, 8 g of carbohydrates including 3 g of sugar and 2 g of fiber, and 3 g of protein. The same quantity of vegetable sourced 195% of the required daily vitamin K, 125% of the Vitamin C and 10% or more of vitamin B-6, folic acid, potassium and manganese.
Consumption of fruits and vegetables such as Brussels sprouts have long been associated with decreased risk of many diseases and conditions. Several studies suggest that increased consumption of plant foods reduces the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and also prolongs life. At the same time there is increase in daily energy.
According to the Linus Pauling Institute, Brussels sprouts is rich in glucosinolates, compounds that belong to the group of phytochemicals called isothiocyanates. Glucosinolates have been proven to stimulate apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells and also help eliminate potential carcinogens in the body.
A study published in the 2003 edition of the British Journal Nutrition showed that boiling Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables for 9-15 minutes reduces the total content of glucosinolates by 18-59 percent. Therefore, researchers recommend their preparation by steaming or frying to retain their properties for anti-cancer.
