Brussels sprouts are useful against disorders of the Immune System, the Skin, hair and eyes, the Heart and Circulation, The Nervous System, Bones, Joints and Muscles and the Reproductive System
They are good for disorders such as chronic fatigue, pre-pregnancy, anaemia, stress, cancer protection, skin infections and low immunity. Like other members of the cruciferous family of vegetables they have been shown to have protective powers against cancer. (Other crucifers include cauliflower, kale, radishes, horseradish, cabbage, spring greens, turnips, brocolli and kale).
Brussels sprouts are rich in carotenoids, including betacarotene, a strong cancer protector, Iron, Vitamin C and folate which also help anaemia, protect against birth defects, and boost energy. There is also a high level of chemicals called glucosinolates, a cancer protective agent particularly effective against colon and breast cancers.
The total antioxidant activity of a food is tested using a measure called the ORAC scale. To counteract the harmful oxidising effects of everything the average person eats, drinks and breathes in a day, around 1650 ORAC units are required in the food and drink consumed daily. Scientists believe that over 80% of the World's population actually fails to get more than 800 ORAC units per day, leaving the body open to damage by oxidation, which can ultimately lead to heart, liver, digestion and kidney diseases and most importantly cancer. Brussels sprouts contain around 980 ORAC units.
Nutrients
Japan eats 4 times as much glucosinolates per day as the UK, and has a very low level of colon cancer.