by Christine Pesta
Brussels sprouts are a very nutritious vegetable. They’re not necessarily the most popular vegetable there is, but they can be prepared in many ways and, given a chance, they might become one of your favorites.
Looking like little cabbages, Brussels sprouts have lots of fiber, and are packed with vitamins such as A, B6, C, and K, along with minerals like copper, manganese, and potassium.
That being the case, there are many health benefits which can be derived from Brussels sprouts. It’s best not to overcook them, or you may encounter a slightly bitter taste, as well as an unpleasant texture if they are too soft. Among the many ways to prepare them include being steamed, roasted, sautéed, boiled, broiled, placed in a stir-fry, or incorporated into a salad.
Below are just some of the many reasons to include them in your diet.
Benefits the Digestive System
This vegetable can help move food through the digestive tract more efficiently, as well as reduce constipation, as a result of its high fiber content. Like broccoli and cauliflower, it is a cruciferous vegetable, which are a type recommended for many with digestive complaints.
Helps Fight Inflammation
Anyone wanting to reduce the pain of inflammation brought on by conditions such as gout or arthritis should eat Brussels sprouts as a regular part of their diet. One of the components of Brussels sprouts which make them such a healthy choice are glucosinolates – which help to alleviate inflammation.
Strengthens the Immune System
Brussels sprouts are chock-full of vitamin C! With more than 100% of the recommended daily allowance in one cup, they produce antioxidants, thus lowering your chances of developing chronic illnesses or catching a cold. For some who cannot consume fruit juices, such as orange juice, Brussels sprouts are a good way to get your daily intake of vitamin C through food rather than supplements.
Helps to Prevent Osteoporosis
As Brussels sprouts contain, among other essential minerals, phosphorous and manganese, it is one of the best vegetables to consume to strengthen your bones and help prevent osteoporosis. In fact, while most people give calcium all of the credit when it comes to strengthening bones, phosphorous is one of the most important minerals in the formation of teeth and bones. To help keep bones strong, or to help them mend better after an injury, one of the best foods to consume are Brussels sprouts.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Brussels sprouts contain potassium. Potassium reduces strain on the cardiovascular system due to its effectiveness as a vasodilator. Eating Brussels sprouts can lower your risk of stroke and heart disease as it helps reduce the pressure within your arteries and blood vessels.
These are just a few examples of the many benefits of Brussels sprouts. As stated before, incorporating them into your diet can improve your overall health.
Note: Due to this vegetable’s high vitamin K content, consuming Brussels sprouts is not recommended if you take blood-clotting medication as it may pose a danger to your cardiovascular system. Consult your doctor before incorporating any new foods into your diet to avoid any health complications.
Christine Pesta is a writer, and the owner and Executive Editor of Live Your Life Vegan. You can follow her here, on Live Your Life Vegan, where she contributes regularly, as well as on social media.
