Brussels sprouts, a green veggie from the Brassicacaeae family, are close relatives to kale, cauliflower, and mustard greens. And, if you eat Brussels sprouts regularly, you can reap some great health benefits, studies show.
This cruciferous veggie is similar in appearance to cabbages, but much smaller and it’s commonly consumed as a side dish.
This veggie should definitely be a part of every healthy diet because it’s so nutritious. When you eat them, you’re supplying your body with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins C and K, omega 3s, and more.
These nutrients play a pivotal role in the prevention and treatment of numerous health problems, including constipation, heart illness, diabetes, and cancer.
This being said, if you’re not the fan of Brussels sprouts and if you only consume them sometimes, you definitely need to eat them more!
7 Health Advantages of Brussels Sprouts
- Lower inflammation
Inflammation is a normal bodily process; however, when there’s excessive and chronic inflammation, the risk of serious health problems like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease increases. According to studies, Brussels sprouts possess potent anti-inflammatory properties and their antioxidants help neutralize free radicals.
- Abundant in fiber
Did you know that a 78-gram Brussels sprouts portion will provide you with 2 grams of important fiber, which is around 8 percent of the RDA of fiber? When you get the necessary daily amount of fiber, you reduce the chance of constipation, improve the bowel movements, and boost the gut health.
- Balance the blood sugar
Thanks to the fiber in them, Brussels sprouts can balance the blood sugar levels and minimize the chance for diabetes. Fiber is known to achieve this by slowing down the sugar absorption in the body.
- Antioxidant power
Antioxidants are compounds which can help lower the oxidative stress in cells and reduce the chance for chronic illness. When you eat them as part of an already healthy and balanced diet, they can boost your body’s antioxidants levels for optimal health.
- May help with cancer
According to some studies, high amounts of antioxidants from this veggie can help from some cancers. What’s more, one study from 2008 showed that they can avert oxidative damage to the cells and keep safe from carcinogens.
- Provides vitamin K
This nutrient is pivotal for blood clotting which stops bleeding, but it also participates in bone growth regulation and may protect from osteoarthritis. According to a study review, vitamin K supplements may help boost the bone strength and decrease the chance for bone fracture in women in post menopause.
- Rich in vitamin C
Did you know that Brussels sprouts will supply you with 81 percent of your daily needs for vitamin C with just half a cup? This vitamin is vital for the growth and repair of bodily tissues but it also plays the role of antioxidant, participates in the protein production, and may even strengthen the immune system. It’s also good for better absorption of non-heme iron, one from plant sources.
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