Garden Eats

Ask Garden Eats: Are Brocco Sprouts Better Than Broccoli?

Posted by Christine Dionese on August 10, 2012 · 1 Comment 

Q: I’ve heard a lot about brocco or broccoli sprouts lately. Are they really better than broccoli and can you tell me why? Thanks!

Jeannie West Hollywood, California

Garden Eats: Hi Jeannie, great question! While eating brocco sprouts is not exactly better per se, they do yield far more nutrients in a far lesser amount than eating broccoli. One serving of brocco sprouts (a little over an ounce) is equal to 1 1/4 pounds of broccoli! This is good news for those of you who don’t like the taste of broccoli, yet still seek the nutrition it offers. Brocco sprouts are a great food choice and you don’t have to eat them everyday to obtain their nutrient-dense benefits.

Eating brocco sprouts at least three times a week is beneficial because they:

• contain both di-indole methane and sulforaphane- both of which are strong anti-cancer compounds
• may prevent ulcers by regulating levels of H. Pylori
• are known to reduce inflammation associated with seasonal allergies and asthma
• may boost antioxidant activity for diabetes patients

Wondering what to do with these little sprouts?

• sprinkle on sandwiches, sweet potatoes and pastas
• mix into stir fries
• grab, wash and chow a handful!
• add to dips like salsas and hummus
• great in pestos (stay tuned for kale and sprouts summer pesto recipe coming soon)

How do you enjoy your brocco sprouts? Tell us about it now in the comments!