brussel sprouts

Health Benefits of Brussel Sprouts


By len7288
brussel sprouts as side dish to sandwich

* Family: Brassica family

Brussel sprouts are vegetable that looks like a mini-cabbage, its size is a diameter of about 1 inch. They grow in bunches of 20 to 40 on the stem of a plant that grows from two to three feet tall. They are oftentimes sold separately but can sometimes be found in stores still attached to the stem. Perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts have a crisp, dense texture, bright green color and a slightly sweet taste. Brussels sprouts are usually served as a side dish but they also make a nice addition to cold salads. Brussel sprouts is one of the most nutritious foods that will fill you up, without filling you out.

Health Benefits:

* A cup of Brussels sprouts contains 1122 IU of vitamin A plus 669 IU of beta-carotene, both of which play important roles in defending the body against infection and promoting supple, glowing skin. The Vitamin A content of Brussel sprout is slightly lower than that of broccoli, but their protein content is higher.
* Brussel sprouts is one of the vegetable that has a highest content of vitamin C. Four ounces of uncooked Brussels sprouts contains about 100 mg of Vitamin C and when it is cooked thoroughly, it will contain about 40 mg of Vitamin C. Vitamin C supports immune function and the manufacture of collagen, the protein like "cement" that supports and holds the body tissues and organ together.

brussel sprouts still attach to the stem

* Brussel sprouts contain sulforaphane a powerful phytonutrient that boosts the body's detoxification enzymes, therefore helping to clear potentially carcinogenic substances more quickly.
* Brussels sprouts supplies 93.6 mg of folic acid, a nutrient that is essential for proper cellular division. Deficiency of folic acid during pregnancy has been linked to several birth defects because without folic acid, the fetus' nervous system cells do not divide properly.
* A cup of Brussels sprouts contains more than 4 grams of fiber, which aids elimination by forming a soft, bulky stool that is easily passed.
* Brussels sprout juice is beneficial for diabetics and hypoglycemics.
* Brussels sprouts contain higher antioxidant than that of red cabbage.
* Brussels sprouts, provide humans with protection against inflammatory diseases like arthritis.
* Brussel sprouts are high in protein which makes is a healthy substitute for meat.

Season: Brussels sprouts are available year round; however, they are at their best from autumn through early spring when they are at the peak of their growing season.

Buying tips:

* If available buy Brussel sprouts still attached to the stalk becaue this indicates freshness.
* Good quality Brussels sprouts are firm, compact and vivid green.
* Avoid those that have holes in their leaves as this may indicate that they have insects residing within.
* If Brussels sprouts are sold individually, choose those of equal size to ensure that they will cook evenly.

Tips for Preparing Brussels sprouts:

* Remove the stems and any discolored and wilted leaves before washing Brussels sprouts. Wash them well under running water or soak them in a bowl of water to remove any insects that may reside in the inner leaves.
* Brussels sprouts are usually cooked whole, for an even cooking cut an "X" in the bottom of the stem before cooking to allow the heat to penetrate throughout the leaves.