Brussels Sprouts. Most of us hate them. Some of us eat them, but only because we feel pressured to do so by a family member. Others realize that there are some health benefits associated with eating Brussels Sprouts and force themselves to eat them for that reason – or choose not to anyway. That’s right, Brussels Sprouts do have a number of health benefits, as bland or disgusting as they may this vegetable, which resembles mini-cabbages, may taste to you. Here are just a few of the different health benefits that Brussels Sprouts have to offer.
Brussels Sprouts Are High in Vitamin C
One of the things that you may not know about Brussels Sprouts is that they are one of the vegetables that is highest in Vitamin C. Four ounces of Brussels Sprouts contains about 100 mg of Vitamin C – when it is not yet cooked. When it is cooked thoroughly, it will contain about 40 mg of Vitamin C. If you want to get the most Vitamin C out of your Brussels Sprouts but still cook them, the best thing that you can do is steam them to a point where they are still a bit crispy. The same holds true for most types of vegetables.
Brussels Sprouts May Help Prevent Cancer
Many types of vegetables have been proven to protect the body against developing certain types of cancer. Brussels Sprouts are no exception. The reason that Brussels Sprouts can help prevent the body from developing cancer is because they contain Glucosinolates and antioxidants. Some of the types of cancer that Brussels Sprouts may help protect the body against include breast, colon and prostate.
Brussels Sprouts Are a Good Source of Fiber
As with a wide variety of other vegetables, Brussels Sprouts are known to contain a fairly high amount of fiber. This essential nutrient is just very healthy for the body, in general. It can help you maintain a regular digestive system, fight cancer and regulate both blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Most people do not get the recommended daily amount of fiber, so getting it any way, even though the form of Brussels Sprouts, can help.
Brussels Sprouts Provide the Body With Potassium
Brussels Sprouts are a good source of potassium, which can also be found in potatoes and bananas. In regards to nutrient deficiencies, potassium deficiency is known to be one of the more common types of deficiencies. Eating Brussels Sprouts is a great way to get potassium if you don’t like bananas or potatoes – or even if you do.
These are just some of the many health benefits that Brussels Sprouts are known to provide the body with. Brussel Sprouts are also known to contain beta carotene, Vitamin A and folic acid. Although many of us don’t enjoy Brussels Sprouts, eating them can provide your body with a number of different health benefits. Still plan to pass on the Brussels Sprouts next time they are offered to you? That’s okay – just realize that you are also missing out on a number of health benefits as well.
