Why Is Mustard a Popular Condiment?
The mustard plant is native to Mediterranean regions and most commonly related to the nutrient-dense vegetable family of the broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts varieties. Both the seeds and leaves of the mustard plant are edible, making it a versatile addition to nearly any dish. Mustard also has a history of use from traditional medicine dating back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Current research is further exploring the possible health benefits of mustard that range from its capacity to lower blood sugar levels to increased protection from infections and chronic disease.
Mustard leaves usually comprise significant amounts of calcium, copper, and vitamins C, A, and K with the seeds being rich in fiber, selenium, magnesium, and manganese. Mustard is one of the most popular and commonly used condiments used in most of the home kitchens globally. This familiar condiment is usually commercially prepared by combining mustard seeds (Brassica alba) with vinegar, salt, and lemon. Though there are in fact many other varieties of mustard made from other types of mustard seed, for example, the brown mustard seeds (Brassica juncea) or the black mustard seeds (Brassica nigra), yellow mustard instead would be called a favorite condiment by most chefs worldwide.
What Are the Antioxidants Found in Mustard?
Mustard comprises primarily potent antioxidants that would be beneficial to health. These two groups of antioxidants known as isothiocyanates and sinigrin are found naturally in these seeds.
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Isothiocyanates yield in fact the oil from which the characteristic pungent taste that may be found in mustard is evident These antioxidants of the first group of isothiocyanates have demonstrated according to nutrition research, potential anti-cancer capabilities against breast, lung, gastrointestinal, and prostate cancers specifically. Even though the mechanism of anti-cancer cell action may remain elusive, much more research is currently needed to understand the exact mechanism as well as the overall efficacy of mustard's health benefits related to cancer scientifically. Isothiocyanates however are known additionally to play a role in managing diabetes by regularizing blood sugar levels, and may further help reduce bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) exerting a potent cardiovascular protective effect as well as certain neurological benefits studied by researchers that would help Individuals affected by the autism condition.
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The other important antioxidant that is found in mustard is called sinigrin. This antioxidant is actually a precursor for the isothiocyanate group of antioxidants and is yielded only when they get damaged or smashed for instance. When this happens to sinigrin, a potent enzyme converts it into isothiocyanates found commonly in mustard oil. Research shows that even sinigrin just like isothiocyanates has several systemic health benefits be it anti-cancer, antibacterial, or anti-inflammatory properties. Further research indicates these potent groups of antioxidants in mustard seeds and oil may have wound-healing properties too.
What Is the Nutritional Value of Mustard?
Usually, one serving of prepared yellow mustard would provide only about three calories. This is according to the USDA data for a single teaspoon of spicy mustard. Most of the calories in the mustard seeds are from carbohydrate sources only. However because the calorie count is negligible or so low, these carbs will not make any significant difference in daily intake. This is in slight contrast to a single serving of Dijon mustard that may contain well up to ten calories per single serving or teaspoon.
Why Exercise Caution for Large Amounts of Mustard?
Although the United States Food and Drug Administration generally considers mustard as safe in smaller amounts commonly found in food, caution is advised when using it for cosmetic or medicinal purposes. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before such usage. According to the Natural Medicines Database, prolonged application of white or black mustard to the skin may result in burns, blisters, ulcers, and skin inflammation. Additionally, consuming large amounts of black mustard seed orally can lead to oral allergic symptoms, throat burn, heart failure, diarrhea, drowsiness, breathing difficulties, coma, or even death, as reported in some cases.
What Are the Side Effects of Eating Mustard?
Also, note that mustard and mustard seed allergies are in fact not uncommon. According to the reports by the Anaphylaxis Campaign in the United Kingdom, any food that is derived from the mustard plant—including mustard leaves, seeds and flowers, sprouted mustard seeds or even the common mustard oil may be capable of causing allergic reactions possibly in individuals with a mustard allergy.
In the event of experiencing symptoms of a mustard allergy, whether mild or severe, such as a rash, itchiness in the mouth and throat, or difficulty breathing, it is crucial to promptly inform the allergy specialist or healthcare provider. Chefs and nutrition experts suggest that, in case of a mustard allergy, it is advisable to replace mustard with alternatives like mayonnaise or wasabi.
How to Purchase and Store?
Mustard variations made with ingredients like honey, spicy peppers, or wine are commonly encountered. Various coarse mustard types, distinguished by intact mustard seeds, are available in condiment, gourmet, or grocery stores. It is advisable to purchase mustard in smaller quantities as the condiment tends to lose its flavor over time. Given that mustard is typically used in limited amounts in culinary applications, there is no need to invest in a large container that may spoil or lose flavor. Mustard can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one year.
How Best to Use Mustard?
To utilize mustard, incorporate its leaves raw or cooked, and employ the seeds or oil in various culinary applications such as salads, soups, or stews. Cooking mustard leaves akin to spinach can introduce a radish-like flavor to the dishes. The strong, spicy taste of mustard complements meat dishes and seafood exceptionally well. Additionally, mustard is a popular choice for crafting salad dressings.
Conclusion:
Mustard, however, in spite of its popularity as a low-calorie food and with numerous health benefits is only usually consumed in small amounts. When consumed as a condiment, however, it may not be really associated with significant systemic health benefits. Mustard would definitely however be an ideal low-calorie alternative recommended by dietician experts instead of a better alternative to using higher-fat condiments like mayonnaise.
