Why Brussels sprouts are the perfect fat-burners but our cabbage and radish are no less
08 December, 2022
Both are high in Vitamin C and potassium. However, radish has 63 per cent less calories than Brussels sprouts. One can have them as a sabzi or as a pickled side dish, says Priyanka Lulla, clinical dietitian at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai
Written by Priyanka Lulla
It all began with a thanksgiving and Christmas ritual, featuring micro-mini cabbages that are cut delicately, cleaned and cooked to make a nutritious side dish or main course. But given their superfood value, nutrient density and fat-lowering qualities, they have been co-opted all across the globe. Which is why now this Belgian vegetable is grown in India, mostly in the Himalayas and Nilgiris and has become a popular winter-time indulgence.
Brussels sprouts are a member of the cruciferous family of vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, kale and broccoli. They resemble mini cabbages and are rich in many nutrients that have been linked to several health benefits. Most importantly, they boost body metabolism to enhance your fat and calorie-burn capacities, helping you lose weight. Their rich fibre load builds satiety and delays hunger pangs.
A superfood for all ages
• They are low in calories but nutritionally dense, high in fibre and vitamins (such as Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Thiamine, Vitamin B6 and folate) and enriched with minerals (such as potassium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus).
• Due to their high fibre content, they can help in relieving constipation as they add bulk to the food.
• They regulate serum cholesterol levels and hence decrease the risk of developing coronary heart disease
• The high fibre content makes this vegetable low glycaemic and ideal for people with diabetes as it helps in maintaining blood sugar levels within normal ranges.
• They promote satiety and thereby weight maintenance
• The vegetable’s vitamin K content may help protect against osteoporosis by boosting bone metabolism. Vitamin K is also important for blood clotting.
• It’s high in Vitamin C, an antioxidant, which is important for immunity-building, iron absorption, collagen production, growth and repair of tissues, prevention of cell damage and reducing inflammation.
• Brussels sprouts make a healthy addition to any diet and are easy to be incorporated as side dishes and entrees. People often enjoy them roasted, boiled, sautéed, or baked. You can also add Brussels sprouts to pasta dishes, frittatas, or stir-fries for a flavorful and nutritious dinner.
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Source: indianexpress.com