Which sulfur-containing compounds characteristic of cruciferous vegetables are converted into active compounds like isothiocyanates in rutabagas?
Answer
Glucosinolates
Glucosinolates are characteristic sulfur-containing compounds found abundantly in cruciferous vegetables like rutabaga. When the physical structure of the plant tissue is disrupted—whether through mechanical action like chewing or enzymatic action during digestion—these glucosinolates undergo conversion. This conversion process yields biologically active substances, notably isothiocyanates, which possess notable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for cellular protection.

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