The many health benefits of eating Brussels sprouts

The many health benefits of eating Brussels sprouts

  • The health benefits of eating Brussels Sprouts are numerous.
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  • Brussels sprouts are part of the cruciferous vegetable family, and like their relatives, they are packed with vitamins and minerals for our overall health.
  • They have a taste similar to cabbage and go great with ginger, garlic and butter.
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  • Let’s look at the health benefits of eating Brussels Sprouts:
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  • Antioxidant rich:
  • Brussels sprouts are rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin A, C, and K. Antioxidants protect the body from the effects of oxidative stress, which may help strengthen the immune system and ward off diseases.
  • Dr. Andrew Weil explains, “Oxidative stress is the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).”
  • The effects of oxidative stress are often linked to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and many types of cancers.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties:
  • Chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for many types of cancers. The glucosinolates in Brussels sprouts help regulate the body’s inflammation system and reduce unwanted inflammation.
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  • Cancer-preventing:
  • Brussels sprouts, like most cruciferous vegetables are linked to cancer prevention and help reduce free radicals in the body. They contain nutrients known as glucosinolates. Upon digestion, this compound can help to eliminate carcinogens before they damage or alter DNA. It helps prevent healthy cells from converting to malignant cells that lead to cancer. Cruciferous vegetables are shown to help prevent lung, breast and prostate cancers.
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  • Detoxification:
  • Organic Brussels sprouts provide detox support. The enzymes that support the natural detoxification system in the body are activated by compounds made by the glucosinolates in Brussels sprouts.
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  • Eye health:
  • Brussels sprouts are great for eye health, as they have a carotenoid known as lutein found in most cruciferous vegetables. Lutein helps protect against age-related disease such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
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  • Heart health:
  • Including organic Brussels sprouts in your diet can help prevent cardiovascular disease. Cruciferous vegetables protect against heart disease, largely due to their high concentration of vitamin C and beta-carotene.
  • One study from the Vanderbilt School of Medicine showed that cruciferous vegetable consumptions in associated with reduced risk of heart disease.  Cruciferous vegetables lower the risk of heart attack. The beta-carotene found in these vegetables decreases the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
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  • Stroke-preventing:
  • Diets rich in cruciferous vegetables may also help reduce the risks of ischemic stroke.
  • According to another study by the Harvard School of Public Health, one serving of fruits or vegetables a day can lower the risk of a stroke by 6 percent. Vegetables in the cruciferous family were found to be the most protective, along with green leafy vegetables and citrus fruits.
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  • Weight loss:
  • Brussels sprouts are very low in calories, with only 21 per sprout. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, with 2% of the recommended daily value per sprout. Fiber helps you make full so you eat less, thus you lose weight.
  • AS ALWAYS: Check with your health practitioner before you change your diet. This organic food is not meant to replace any treatment or drugs you are taking.
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  1. Pingback: The many health benefits of sugar snap peas - STEPin2

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