Brussels sprouts have had a mixed reputation in the past, partly because kids are notoriously finicky when it comes to eating these delicious vegetables and may have grown up with the same mindset. When they are prepared raw in salads or gently roasted, Brussels sprouts have a pleasingly sweet flavor reminiscent of cabbage or broccoli. If you have not been a fan of Brussels sprouts in the past, you should try them again and consider these magnificent health benefits:
Filling fiber
Like other cruciferous vegetables, Brussels sprouts are very high in fiber. Fiber will help keep you full, because it promotes proper digestion and takes a long time for your body to break down. The binding effect of fiber also helps the body excrete bile acids, which lowers the cholesterol.
Cancer-fighting glucosinolate
Antioxidant richness makes Brussels sprouts a great choice for your diet. Glucosinolate is one of the nutrients found in Brussels sprouts that has been shown to have cancer-fighting effects. Brussels sprouts are the most commonly consumed source of glucosinolate next to broccoli.
DNA-protecting compounds
Regularly consuming Brussels sprouts could stabilize the DNA inside your white blood cells, because Brussels sprouts contain unique compounds that block ulphotransferase enzymes. The activity of these enzymes is thought to negatively alter DNA, thereby raising one’s risk for cancer and other diseases.
Heart-healthy omega 3s
You may not think of vegetables as sources of omega-3 fatty acids, but they do provide the basic fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This acid reduces inflammation in the body and helps to build muscle tissue, making it an essential nutrient for heart health.
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