There was an article this week in the press about a gentleman who was on blood thinning medication becoming sick from eating this vegetable. The Brussels sprout is a type of cabbage grown for its edible buds. The Brussels sprout has long been popular in Brussels, Belgium which may be how they got the name.
If you are not on this type of medication there is nothing to fear. Brussells Sprouts greens are nutritionally rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, B vitamins (thiamine, niacin, and folate) and vitamin E, and research indicates they may help prevent heart disease and a recurrence of cancer.
Brussels sprouts, as with broccoli and other brassicas contains sulforaphan and indole-3-carbinol. Sulforaphan is a naturally occurring a chemical believed to have potent anticancer properties. We recommend broiling or lightly steaming or frying since boiling reduces the level of the anticancer compounds. Indole-3-carbinol is also a naturally occurring chemical which boosts DNA repair in cells and appears to block the growth of cancer cells.
Excess eating of brassicas may not be suitable for heart patients taking anticoagulant medication because it contains vitamin K.
Here are two of my favorite Brussel Sprout Recipes. One is to lightly steam them and add some light soy sauce and black sesame seeds. The other is to roast brussel sprouts with extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, shallots and black pepper.
When looking for recipes for brussel sprouts remember that if you over cook them they get bitter.
If you are on blood thinning medication do not overeat these vegetables. The reason? There is an abundant level of vitamin K in the sprouts which promotes blood-clotting, so can nullify the effects of this medication.
Essentially if you are a patient taking anticoagulants check with your health professional to determine how much of green leafy vegetables are too much.
Author Bio: Lewis Harrison is an American Author, Nutrition Teacher, chef and entrepreneur. He is pioneer in the wellness and alternative medicine movements. He is the author of nine books on holistic and health nutrition including Healing Depression Naturally, Master Your Metabolism, the Complete Fats and Oils Book, and 3- Day Body Purification. He has an Institute through which his Nutrition work is taught http://www.LewisharrisonsNaturalhealing Academy.com, and a Nutrition Spa and Retreat Center – Thecatskillsbedandbreakfast.com. He may be contacted at LewisHeals@gmail.com