Cousin to broccoli and cabbage, Brussels sprouts are loaded with phytochemical nutrients. Plant phytonutrients found in Brussels sprouts enhance the activity of the body's natural defence systems to protect against disease, including cancer. Scientists have found that sulforaphane, one of the powerful glucosinolate phytonutrients found in Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables, boosts the body's detoxification enzymes, potentially by altering gene expression, thus, helping to clear potentially carcinogenic substances more quickly.
The hearty vegetable also provides plenty of vitamins A and C, two powerful antioxidants that may help reduce the risk of some cancers. In addition, vitamin A boosts immune-system function and promotes healthy, resilient skin. Folate, another heart-healthy nutrient found in the sprouts, may protect against cognitive decline and is essential for pregnant women, as it helps prevent birth defects.
Buy Tip: Choose sprout heads of roughly the same size so they'll cook evenly. Avoid those with excessive leaf perforations; they may contain common garden pests.
I have to tell you that one of my kids was caught red handed just the other night of trying to slip her brussel sprouts off the table to one of our dogs. I could not really blame her it was not until I got older that I found I had an appreciation for this hearty vitamin packed sprout! Thanks for the info....
ReplyDeleteI was not one of those kids. I loved brussel sprouts! But I hated carrots. Go figure.
ReplyDeleteActually I love brussel sprouts, in small doses.
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting my blog :) I love perfectly cooked brussel sprouts...Australian foodie Stephanie Alexander recommends (in her food bible) cooking them for 8 minutes in lots of boiling water (to help clear any sulfur taste)...I do it this way and they come out sweet and yummy every time! Love all the information you are sharing here. Tatum
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