Brussels sprouts are a vegetable crop that belongs to the category of biennial plants. The first fruits after planting the crop can only be obtained in the second year. Brussels sprouts produce fruit the size of a walnut. Many doctors recommend using E6e in food, which is explained by its highest efficiency.
Brussels sprouts have a huge amount of useful substances.
Brussels sprouts have a versatile composition. That is why it has a huge number of advantages. With the help of this culture the following is carried out:
- Normalization. Regular consumption of Brussels sprouts can normalize cholesterol levels. It is also characterized by a positive effect on cardiac activity.
- Due to the presence of carotenoids in this plant, its use limits the possibility of damage to the retina. The action of vitamin A is aimed at maintaining and improving visual acuity. Thanks to regular use of this product, it is possible to maintain one hundred percent vision.
- With the help of vitamin C and dietary fiber, gastric acidity is reduced and eliminated.
- Brussels sprouts are often consumed in the postoperative period or after significant blood loss. This is explained by its positive effect on blood composition and stimulation of red blood cell synthesis.
- To eliminate stool retention, patients are recommended to add Brussels sprouts to a variety of dishes. Thanks to the presence of fiber in the composition of this product, its normal functioning is restored.
- Due to the presence of a large amount of vitamin C in the composition of Brussels sprouts, a positive effect on metabolic processes in the body is ensured, as well as restoration of the normal functioning of the immune system.
- The plant acts as a prophylactic against acute respiratory diseases. The product contains β-catrotinin, which has antioxidant activity. This has a positive effect on reducing the risk of diseases such as viral infections, asthma and emphysema.
- Brussels sprouts are characterized by anti-inflammatory properties. This plant strengthens vascular walls and also has a positive effect on the treatment of various cardiac pathologies.
Brussels sprouts have a huge number of beneficial properties, which allows them to be used for prevention and treatment.
Cabbage and pregnancy
Due to the presence of indole-3-carbinol in this product, the possibility of proliferation of pathological cells is eliminated.
That is why female representatives often consume Brussels sprouts as a preventive measure for breast cancer.
Doctors recommend the use of Brussels sprouts during the period of planning a child. Thanks to the presence of folic acid in Brussels sprouts, the normalization of a woman’s hormonal levels is ensured, as well as an increase in the chances of successfully conceiving a child.
During pregnancy, the fairer sex is required to eat this vegetable. This is explained by the presence of a large amount of folic acid in its composition, which limits the possibility of congenital pathologies in the unborn child in the form of cleft palate or spina bifida.
Brussels sprouts also contain calcium. Its action is aimed at maintaining the normal condition of nails, bones and teeth. With the help of vitamin C, various infectious processes are prevented.
The vegetable is characterized by a minimal amount of fat in its composition. Brussels sprouts replace them with more protein. This provides an opportunity to replenish nutrients. This allows you to limit the possibility of obesity for the expectant mother.
Brussels sprouts are quite beneficial during pregnancy. This is explained by the fact that it contains plant fibers. During the period of taking this product, normalization is carried out. This is an excellent remedy against constipation, which is often the cause of hemorrhoids.
The plant plays an important role for a woman during pregnancy. This is why Brussels sprouts must be taken daily during pregnancy.
Vegetable harm
If you have intestinal diseases, you should not use this product.
Despite the huge number of benefits, in some cases Brussels sprouts can be harmful to human health.
If cabbage is consumed by a certain group of people, it leads to muscle relaxation.
This is why the vegetable can increase acidity and cause heartburn. This side effect is explained by individual intolerance to the product.
If a person has chronic intestinal or stomach diseases, then eating Brussels sprouts should be done with the utmost caution. People may experience symptoms when taking this product. Side effects also include the appearance of gas.
In some cases, eating Brussels sprouts is accompanied by poor health. The vegetable consists of indoles, which prevent iodine from being absorbed normally. But, if you carry out proper heat treatment of Brussels sprouts, this will lead to the neutralization of these substances.
If patients have thyroid disease, they should eat Brussels sprouts only after consulting a doctor. This is explained by the fact that the product contains geitrogens, which suppress the production of thyroid hormones.
If Brussels sprouts are consumed in excessive quantities, this can lead to hypothyroidism. This disease occurs as a result of a lack of thyroid hormones.
Since Brussels sprouts have contraindications, they should be consumed in moderation. It is best to consult a doctor before using this vegetable.
Features of the use of cabbage
Brussels sprouts can be eaten stewed.
Brussels sprouts have a sweet, nutty flavor. That is why it is highly valued by gourmets. Since the product has excellent taste, people find it very useful.
Brussels sprouts can be used to prepare main courses, salads, side dishes for meat and fish, and cabbage soup. This product is widely used in frozen vegetable mixtures. You can use it to prepare pickled mixed vegetables.
After boiling the cabbage, it is fried until a golden brown crust appears on it. For this purpose, it is first coated in breadcrumbs. Brussels sprouts can also be sautéed in oil. Sour cream or cream can be used as a sauce for the dish.
Brussels sprouts go very well with side dishes such as potatoes and. Brussels sprouts are an excellent decoration for the holiday table, due to their small size and original shape.
When preparing Brussels sprouts, it is recommended to cook them for no more than 5-10 minutes. This is explained by the possibility of vitamin C destruction during prolonged heat treatment and the product losing its beneficial qualities.
It is best to steam or fry the Brussels sprouts in oil. It will be the perfect addition to vegetable soup. Brussels sprouts are characterized by a universal composition, which provides them with a huge amount. The vegetable is characterized by the presence of contraindications, in the presence of which it is necessary to consult a doctor before using it.
A thematic video will tell you about the benefits of Brussels kaputa:
Tell your friends! Share this article with your friends on your favorite social network using social buttons. Thank you!
Telegram
Read along with this article:
The origin of Brussels sprouts is indicated by its name. It was bred from kale by Belgian breeders and gardeners. High taste qualities made this culture popular first in Europe and America, and in the middle of the 19th century it appeared in Russia.
Small round or oval heads of Brussels sprouts differ from other types of cabbage not only in size. They, which is very important for women’s health, contain more vegetable protein and vitamins. In 100 grams of this vegetable crop, the protein content reaches 3.5 - 5%. This amount of product contains 90% of the daily requirement of vitamin C.
The rich vitamin composition regulates the hormonal levels of the female body, has a positive effect on metabolic processes, and regulates reproductive function. Brussels sprouts contain substances, they are called DIM for short, which neutralize excess estrogen, and it is fraught with:
- proliferation of the endometrium and formation of cysts;
- decreased breast milk production;
- violation of bone tissue formation.
Brussels sprouts have a powerful preventive and therapeutic effect against breast cancer. Numerous long-term studies have been conducted that have confirmed the fact that the incidence of cancer is reduced by 30% in women who regularly eat this type of cabbage.
The benefits of this vegetable during the period of conception and pregnancy should not be underestimated. The content of B vitamins and folic acid becomes an excellent prevention of congenital defects of the fetus. 100 g of vegetable contains more than the daily requirement of vitamin K. It increases blood clotting and reduces the risk of bleeding during childbirth.
The harmful effect on the female body is the ability to provoke excessive gas formation in the stomach and intestines and disrupt the functioning of the thyroid gland.
The benefits and harms of Brussels sprouts for men
Brussels sprouts are useful for both the fair sex and the stronger half of humanity.
It contains more calories than other types. This makes the vegetable more nutritious for the male body. In 100 g of product:
- protein – 4 g;
- fat – 0.3 g;
- carbohydrates – 5.5 g;
- water – 86 g;
- calories – 43kcal.
The content of essential amino acids and fiber make Brussels sprouts a useful product for sports nutrition and physical activity. It is a must on the menu for people involved in strength sports, including bodybuilding. The substances that make up Brussels sprouts regulate fat metabolism, promote the breakdown and removal of excess fat from the body.
The vitamin and mineral composition of the vegetable regulates hormonal levels and improves brain and central nervous system function. Eating Brussels sprouts for men at least once a week is a good preventive measure:
- cancer;
- stroke;
- heart attack.
It is harmful to consume Brussels sprouts for men with iodine metabolism disorders. Indole, present in the vegetable, prevents the thyroid gland from absorbing iodine. This causes poor health and negatively affects brain processes and the immune system.
It is necessary to abandon this type of cabbage during periods of exacerbation of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and urinary organs.
The harm and benefits of Brussels sprouts for children
The advantage of Brussels sprouts over other types of vegetables in baby food is that small, toy-like heads of cabbage attract children, so kids will be happy to eat several pieces. It is enough to decorate any dish with a small amount of miniature cabbage so that the child receives the daily requirement of most nutrients.
Vitamin K, which this type of vegetable is rich in, is very useful for the child’s body. It not only improves blood clotting, but also has a positive effect on bone formation and bone growth. In addition, the product’s vitamins strengthen the child’s immune system and protect against viral and colds. Brussels sprouts are essential for feeding children with diabetes and help reduce the need for insulin.
In the diet of school-age children, the presence of Brussels sprouts improves:
- vision;
- memory;
- attention;
- hematopoiesis;
- metabolism;
- physical endurance.
For baby food you can use cabbage:
- boil;
- steam;
- stew;
- Use raw for salads.
It is harmful to include this type of vegetable in the menu of children suffering from:
- diarrhea;
- acute forms of colitis;
- individual intolerance;
- during the rehabilitation period after surgery on the abdominal organs;
- for disorders of iodine absorption.
Such restrictions are most often temporary. As soon as the listed pathologies are eliminated, cabbage dishes can be safely included in baby food.
Harm and benefits of Brussels sprouts for babies
Feeding an infant Brussels sprouts can begin no earlier than six months of age. The benefits of this product for infants are as follows:
- almost complete absence of allergens;
- the presence of nutrients and beneficial substances;
- contains a small amount of dietary fiber.
It is especially important to introduce Brussels sprouts into the diet of children with chronic constipation. In order not to harm the child’s health, complementary feeding with cabbage should be started according to the following rules:
- If the child is breastfed, cabbage dishes are included in the mother’s diet in advance.
- During the period of introducing complementary foods, the baby must be healthy.
- The volume of the first portion should be no more than 1/2 tsp.
- The introduction of a new product can begin a week after the inclusion of the previous complementary food in the diet.
- Mashed cabbage can be combined with a small amount of breast milk or regular formula.
- During the week, the amount of cabbage can be increased to 2-3 tbsp. spoons
It is harmful to introduce Brussels sprouts during any illness in the baby. It is contraindicated for children suffering from diarrhea, acute colitis and gastritis.
If the body of an adult or child reacts poorly to raw cabbage, it can be replaced with boiled or stewed vegetables. In any case, it is important to adhere to moderate consumption of even the healthiest foods.
Brussels sprouts belong to the cabbage family. This small cabbage usually has a diameter of 2.5-4 cm. Brussels sprouts have long been popular in Brussels (Belgium), and may have originated and received their name there.
Although common in the Mediterranean along with other types of cabbage, Brussels sprouts first appeared in northern Europe in the fifth century, later being cultivated in the thirteenth century near Brussels, from where they get their name.
Compound
Raw Brussels sprouts contain significant amounts of vitamin C and vitamin K, with more moderate amounts of B vitamins such as folic acid and vitamin B6; essential minerals and dietary fiber (fiber) are present in smaller quantities.
Brussels sprouts, like broccoli and other cabbage vegetables, contain sulforaphane, an organic compound known for its potential anti-cancer properties. Although cooking reduces sulforaphane levels, steaming and stir-frying do not lead to significant loss.
Nutritional value per 100 grams:
- Calories in Brussels sprouts: 179 kJ (43 kcal).
- Boiled Brussels sprouts - calorie content: 36 kcal.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts - calorie content: 36 kcal.
- Carbohydrates: 8.95 grams.
- Dietary fiber: 3.8 grams.
- Fat: 0.3 grams.
- Protein: 3.48 grams.
Vitamins (content per 100 grams):
- Vitamin A: 38 mcg (5%).
- Beta-carotene: 450 mcg (4%).
- Lutein zeaxanthin: 1590 mcg.
- Thiamine (B1): 0.139 mg (12%).
- Riboflavin (B2): 0.09 mg (8%).
- Niacin (B3): 0.745 mg (5%).
- Pantothenic acid (B5): 0.309 mg (6%).
- Vitamin B6: 0.219 mg (17%).
- Folic Acid (B9): 61 mcg (15%).
- Choline: 19.1 mg (4%).
- Vitamin C: 85 mg (102%).
- Vitamin E: 0.88 mg (6%).
- Vitamin K: 177 mcg (169%).
Minerals (content per 100 grams):
- Calcium: 42 mg (4%).
- Iron: 1.4 mg (11%).
- Magnesium: 23 mg (6%).
- Manganese: 0.377 mg (16%).
- Phosphorus: 69 mg (10%).
- Potassium: 389 mg (8%).
- Sodium: 25 mg (2%).
- Zinc: 0.42 mg (4%).
Other components (content per 100 grams):
- Water: 86 grams.
*Percentages indicate the amount of a substance relative to the recommended daily intake for an adult.
Benefits of Brussels sprouts
Here are 10 proven health benefits of Brussels sprouts:
1. Contains many nutrients
Brussels sprouts are very low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. This vegetable is one of the foods rich in vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health. It also contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that promotes iron absorption and is involved in tissue repair and immune function.
Moreover, the high fiber content helps maintain gut health and prevents constipation. In addition to the nutrients above, Brussels sprouts contain small amounts of vitamin B6, potassium, iron, thiamine, magnesium and phosphorus.
Let's summarize:
Brussels sprouts contain few calories but are rich in many nutrients, especially fiber, vitamin K and vitamin C.
2. Rich in antioxidants
Brussels sprouts have many health benefits, especially due to the presence of impressive amounts of antioxidants.
Antioxidants are compounds that reduce oxidative stress in your cells and help reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases. One study found that when participants consumed about 300 grams of Brussels sprouts daily, damage to their cells from oxidative stress decreased by 28%.
Brussels sprouts are especially rich in kaempferol, an antioxidant that has been widely studied for its many health benefits. Test-tube studies show that kaempferol may reduce cancer cell growth, inflammation, and improve heart health. Eating Brussels sprouts as part of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help provide the body with antioxidants that promote optimal health.
Let's summarize:
Brussels sprouts contain kaempferol, an antioxidant that may reduce cancer growth, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health.
3. May Help Protect Against Cancer
Some research suggests that the high levels of antioxidants in Brussels sprouts may help protect against the development of certain types of cancer. A 2008 study found that Brussels sprouts may protect against carcinogens or cancer-causing agents and prevent oxidative damage to cells.
In another small study, it increased the amount of certain detoxifying enzymes by 15-30%. The researchers suggested that this effect could potentially lead to a reduced risk of colorectal cancer, although further research is needed.
Additionally, the antioxidants in Brussels sprouts can neutralize free radicals that are formed as a result of oxidative stress. Free radicals contribute to the development of diseases such as cancer .
Including this vegetable in a balanced diet, along with a healthy lifestyle, may help reduce the risk of cancer, but more research is needed.
Let's summarize:
Some studies suggest that compounds found in Brussels sprouts may reduce the risk of cancer.
4. High in fiber
100 grams of Brussels sprouts contain 3.8 grams of fiber, which satisfies our daily fiber requirement by about 15%. Fiber is essential for our gut health, and consuming enough fiber has many benefits for our overall health.
Research shows that dietary fiber can relieve constipation by increasing the frequency of bowel movements and making stool looser and bulkier, making it easier to pass through the intestines and rectum. Fiber also aids digestion by helping to feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
Increasing your fiber intake is associated with other whole-body health benefits, such as reducing your risk of heart disease and improving blood sugar control.
Women are recommended to eat at least 25 grams of fiber per day, while men should eat at least 38 grams of fiber per day. Eating Brussels sprouts, along with other good sources of dietary fiber such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can easily help you meet your fiber needs.
Let's summarize:
Brussels sprouts contain quite a lot of fiber, which can help improve digestion, prevent constipation and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
5. Rich in vitamin K
Brussels sprouts are a good source of vitamin K. In fact, 100 grams of this vegetable provides the body with 177 mcg of vitamin K, which is equal to 169% of the recommended daily intake of this vitamin.
Vitamin K plays a vital role in the body. It is important for:
- blood clotting;
- the formation of blood clots that stop bleeding;
- may play a role in bone growth;
- may help protect against the development of osteoporosis.
In fact, one review of seven studies concluded that taking vitamin K supplements may increase bone strength and reduce the risk of bone fracture in postmenopausal women.
Keep in mind that those taking blood thinners should reduce their vitamin K intake. But for most people, increasing your vitamin K intake can provide many health benefits.
Let's summarize:
Brussels sprouts contain high amounts of vitamin K, a nutrient important for normal blood clotting and bone metabolism.
6. May Help Maintain Normal Blood Sugar Levels
In addition to their impressive nutrient profile and long list of health benefits, Brussels sprouts may also help maintain normal blood sugar levels.
Numerous studies have linked increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables, including Brussels sprouts, to a reduced risk of diabetes. This is likely due to the fact that this vegetable contains high amounts of fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Fiber moves slowly through the body and slows down the release of sugar into the blood.
Brussels sprouts also contain alpha lipoic acid (ALA), an antioxidant that has been widely studied for its potential effects on blood sugar and insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone that is responsible for transporting sugar from the blood into your cells, thereby controlling your blood sugar levels.
In one study, 12 diabetic patients who were given an alpha lipoic acid supplement experienced increased insulin sensitivity. The researchers suggested this was because alpha lipoic acid allowed insulin to work more effectively in lowering blood sugar levels.
Increasing your consumption of Brussels sprouts along with a healthy diet can help you keep your blood sugar levels stable.
Let's summarize:
The fiber and antioxidants in Brussels sprouts may help keep your blood sugar levels stable.
7. Contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids (ALA)
People who don't eat fish or seafood have a hard time getting the right amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Plant foods contain only alpha lipoic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that is used less efficiently in your body than omega-3 fats obtained from fish and seafood.
This is because your body can convert ALA into more active forms of omega-3 fatty acids in limited quantities. For this reason, you will need to consume higher amounts of ALA omega-3 fatty acids to meet your daily omega-3 needs compared to fats obtained from fish or seafood.
Brussels sprouts are one of the best plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, as they contain 173 mg of ALA for every 100 grams. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to lower blood triglyceride levels, slow cognitive decline, reduce insulin resistance, and reduce inflammation.
A few 80-gram servings of Brussels sprouts each week can easily meet your omega-3 fatty acid needs, each providing 12% of a woman's daily value and 8.5% of a man's daily requirement.
Let's summarize:
Brussels sprouts are a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, namely alpha lipoic acid (ALA), which can reduce inflammation, insulin resistance, cognitive decline and blood triglyceride levels.
8. May Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a normal immune response, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of diseases such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Some test-tube studies have shown that compounds found in cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels sprouts have anti-inflammatory properties. A large study found that higher consumption of cruciferous vegetables was associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers in the blood.
Additionally, Brussels sprouts contain high amounts of antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals that cause inflammation. Several studies have found that kaempferol (one of the main antioxidants in Brussels sprouts) has particularly strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Based on these findings, a diet rich in cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels sprouts may help reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of pro-inflammatory diseases.
Let's summarize:
Brussels sprouts are rich in antioxidants and contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation levels.
9. Contains a lot of vitamin C
100 grams of cooked Brussels sprouts provides the body with vitamin C at 102% of the daily requirement. Vitamin C is important for tissue growth and repair in the body. It also acts as an antioxidant, is involved in the production of proteins such as collagen, and may even boost immunity.
One study of more than 11,000 participants found that vitamin C reduced the severity of cold symptoms, reducing their duration by an average of 8% in adults.
Vitamin C can also increase the absorption of non-heme iron, a form of iron found in plant foods that your body cannot absorb as easily as iron from animal foods. In fact, one study found that taking 100 mg of vitamin C with food increased iron absorption by 67%.
Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, but Brussels sprouts are one of the best sources available. Adding even one or two servings of this vegetable to your diet a few times a week can help you meet your vitamin C needs.
Let's summarize:
Brussels sprouts contain significant amounts of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant important for immune health, iron absorption, collagen production, and tissue growth and repair.
10. It's easy to add to your diet.
Brussels sprouts add variety to a healthy diet and can easily be incorporated into a variety of side dishes and dishes. People often consume it fried, boiled or baked.
To make a simple side dish, first cut off the ends of the Brussels sprouts. Toss it with a little olive oil, salt and pepper, then fry until crispy.
Brussels sprouts can also be added to pasta, frittata or fried dishes for a satisfying and nutritious lunch.
Let's summarize:
Brussels sprouts are easy to prepare and you can enjoy them in a variety of delicious dishes while reaping the health benefits.
Brussels sprouts are harmful
Brussels sprouts are extremely safe to eat. However, its consumption in some cases can cause increased gas formation (flatulence) and bloating.
It is not known whether Brussels sprouts are safe or what possible side effects may occur when used in medicinal quantities.
Special precautions and contraindications:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is insufficient information about the safety of consuming Brussels sprouts in medicinal quantities during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and stick to eating regular foods.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Eating Brussels sprouts may cause gas. This can make IBS symptoms worse.
Excess consumption of Brussels sprouts may not be suitable for patients taking anticoagulants such as warfarin as they contain vitamin K, which is a blood clotting factor. In one incident report, eating too many Brussels sprouts accelerated the hospitalization of a patient taking anticoagulants (blood thinners).
Summarize
- Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your daily diet.
- Eating it may also provide additional health benefits, such as helping to reduce the risk of cancer, reducing inflammation and improving blood sugar control.
- Adding Brussels sprouts to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can potentially have a significant positive impact on your health.
Brussels sprouts are widely cultivated in Europe and the USA, but in Russia they are quite rare. Mostly this vegetable is grown in the central part of our vast country. This crop looks like a long stem dotted with small cabbage heads. Those who are attentive to their health will be interested to learn about Brussels sprouts and, in particular, what benefits and harm their consumption can bring to the body.
Brussels sprouts are very small in size - they are hardly larger than a regular walnut. There can be up to 50-70 of them on each stem. They are the ones that are eaten.
The calorie content of Brussels sprouts is low and is about 43 kcal/100 g in a fresh product and no more than 36 kcal in a frozen product. That is why it is considered a dietary product and is used in the preparation of special diets aimed at weight loss. However, Brussels sprouts are high in vitamins and nutrients, which is why their nutritional value is significant. It contains a large amount of protein (up to 4.8-5 g), which is characterized by a rich set of amino acids and is not much inferior in characteristics to animal proteins. In addition, there is 2 times more of it in Brussels sprouts than in other varieties of similar crops.
There is little fat content - only 0.3 g per 100 g (the same amount as in cauliflower). The amount of carbohydrates is about 3.1 g - they are 2 times less than in the usual white cabbage. It also contains up to 0.4 g of starch, about 1.3 g of ash, and 4.2 g of dietary fiber. The majority of the mass is occupied by water - about 86 g per 100 g. The composition also contains disaccharides and monosaccharides in the amount of 2.7 g, organic (up to 0.3 g) and unsaturated fatty (up to 0.1 g) acids.
Of particular value is the set of vitamins and minerals contained in the fruits of this crop. Vitamin composition of Brussels sprouts per 100 g:
- A – 50 mcg;
- B 1 – 0.1 mg;
- C – 100 mg;
- B 2 – 0.2 mg;
- B 6 – 0.28 mg;
- E – 1 mg;
- At 9 – 31 mcg;
- B 5 – 0.4 mg;
- RR – 1.5 mg.
As for microelements, Brussels sprouts are not deprived of them either. For example, it contains 375 mg/100 g of potassium, 78 mg of phosphorus, 40 mg of magnesium, and 34 mg of calcium. It is rich in sodium and iron (7 and 1.3 mg/100 g, respectively).
Unfortunately, Brussels sprouts cannot boast of good taste - they are slightly bitter, and even smell a bit harsh, which is why people don’t like them. It is consumed mainly by those people who know about its benefits for the body. However, most of the shortcomings can be eliminated by properly preparing the vegetable.
Beneficial properties for the body
The benefits of Brussels sprouts for the human body are indeed very great. It is recommended to use it regularly for the following purposes:
- improves the functioning of the visual organs, since cabbage contains lutein;
- lowering cholesterol levels;
- reducing the risk of breast cancer by 70% due to the content of isothiocyanates in the vegetable;
- prevention of respiratory diseases (beta-carotene acts as an assistant, which reduces the risk of developing asthma and ARVI);
- preventing constipation and improving the functioning of the digestive system;
- improving the functioning of the immune system;
- weight loss;
- prevention of diseases of the hematopoietic system.
The popularity of the culture has increased significantly since the time scientists announced that the product helps remove substances that provoke the development of cancer from the body, and its juice ensures a speedy recovery from serious illnesses.
This cabbage is also good for the prevention of vitamin deficiencies; it is included in the menu of diabetics and overweight people. It also helps with a number of diseases of the genitourinary system, providing a diuretic effect. Accelerates the healing process of wounds and is recommended for those who have undergone surgery.
Children
As for the body of children, here too the beneficial properties of Brussels sprouts manifest themselves to the fullest. Due to the calcium content it contains, it helps strengthen bone tissue. That is why cabbage must be included in the child’s menu.
The product is recommended for use by children aged 6 months and older. But even older people are advised to include it on the menu with caution. You need to start giving it little by little, with a teaspoon in the morning, and watch the body’s reaction to this product.
Women
It is also recommended for women to include Brussels sprouts in their diet. The beneficial properties of the product are due to the significant amount of folic acid in it, which is so necessary for the female body. Diindolylmethane contained in the product stimulates the production of female hormones estrogen, and indole-3-carbinol helps inhibit the development of cells that lead to breast cancer. 
Men
Brussels sprouts also bring a lot of benefits to men. It increases sperm activity and quantity. The product is recommended to be included in the menu of men aiming to soon become fathers. Cabbage can increase sexual activity in both sexes.
Benefits of Brussels sprouts during pregnancy
Since Brussels sprouts are an important source of folic acid, it is important for expectant mothers to consume them. The substance is required for the harmonious development of the baby’s nervous system; it reduces the risk of pathologies and developmental defects in children. The product will also help replenish the lack of vitamin C and calcium in the body of the expectant mother, help cope with constipation and control weight gain.
You can start eating Brussels sprouts from the early stages of pregnancy. But nursing women should eat this product with caution and only when the baby is at least 2 months old. Otherwise, colic may occur.
Application in dietetics and weight loss
The role of Brussels sprouts is also great for weight loss. It is often one of the components of the menu for people watching weight. There are no norms for its use as such unless there are contraindications. The minimum dose per day is 300 g. But in general, since the product is low in calories, there is no need to monitor the amount of Brussels sprouts in your diet.
It can be eaten in any form - stewed, boiled, baked. It makes good side dishes and salads. It brings the maximum amount of benefit to the body when it is fresh or its juice, so it is better to eat Brussels sprouts raw.
Harm and contraindications for use
Unfortunately, uncontrolled use of the product is impossible due to a number of contraindications. Brussels sprouts are harmful to health in certain cases: for example, people with pathologies of the digestive system should eat them with caution. It is enough that it contains a large amount of fiber and can cause loose stools and bloating. In this case, it is better to use it only after consulting a doctor.
In contact with
Classmates
- a type of kale, bred artificially. Like any vegetable crop, it is necessary for the body, but has some contraindications.
A small head of Brussels sprouts is a storehouse of vitamins and minerals: vitamins C, B1, B2, B6 and PP, sodium, potassium, carotene, folic acid, iron, iodine, vegetable protein, etc. Thanks to such a high concentration of amino acids, minerals and vitamins, Brussels sprouts Cabbage is an essential component of many healthy diets.
Firstly, the benefit of Brussels sprouts lies in the high content of vitamin C, the main protector of the body during epidemics of influenza and colds. It strengthens the immune system, increases the body's resistance, relieves stress and fatigue. In terms of vitamin C content, Brussels sprouts are not inferior to black currants.
Due to their high antioxidant content, including Brussels sprouts in your diet will reduce your risk of cancer.
There is no doubt about the benefits of Brussels sprouts for people suffering from vegetative-vascular dystonia, heart and vascular diseases. Calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron and magnesium have a positive effect on the functioning of the heart muscle, also strengthening the walls of blood vessels. Due to its high potassium content, cabbage is valuable in the diet of patients with arrhythmia and hypertension.
Their richness in vitamins and minerals makes Brussels sprouts a staple dish during the recovery period after surgery or illness. One of its most significant advantages is its ability to stimulate wound healing.
For those who are concerned about excess weight, as well as for patients with diabetes, the primary benefit of Brussels sprouts is their high percentage of fiber and low carbohydrate content. Doctors recommend it as a main dish in the diet menu.
Calcium strengthens bone and muscle tissue, so the benefits of Brussels sprouts are undeniable for baby food and for nutrition in old age.
Riboflamin (B2), carotene are “beauty vitamins,” and iron and iodine are “mind and good memory.” Crude protein, vitamin B, and riboflamin also supply the body with energy, speeding up metabolic processes and helping in the digestion of food.
Harm Brussels sprouts is not so great compared to the benefits it brings.
- Firstly, it is worth noting the harm of Brussels sprouts for people with high stomach acidity or exacerbations of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Secondly, patients with acute enterocolitis and intestinal spasms should also refrain from including it in their diet.
- Thirdly, the harm of Brussels sprouts, like any other type of cabbage, is undeniable for people with weakened intestinal motility.
Having figured out the benefits and harms of Brussels sprouts, you can safely include them as a main dish in your diet, not forgetting about the contraindications.
