Whether you hate them or love them, Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients. They contain antioxidants that help fight cancer and heart disease, protein that helps keep the body strong and Vitamin C that works to strengthen the immune system. Brussels sprouts health benefits stem from the important vitamins and minerals they contain.
Brussels Sprouts Health Benefits
1. Help Protect the Body
Thanks to their high antioxidant content, Brussels sprouts health benefits include protection from cancer. The antioxidants work to protect the body against free radical damage, oxidative stress and DNA mutation. Studies have shown that the sulfur-containing compounds in Brussels sprouts also have cancer-fighting abilities. (1)
2. Improve Bone Health
Brussels sprouts health benefits include improved bone health. The cruciferous vegetable is one of the best food sources of Vitamin K, which plays an important role in bone health. Vitamin K helps prevent health conditions related to weak bones, like osteoporosis and bone fractures.
3. Boost the Immune System
Brussels sprouts contain a high amount of Vitamin C, which gives the immune system a natural boost. Vitamin C works as a protective antioxidant in the body. It helps reduce inflammation and strong damage, while supporting a healthy immune system.
4. Fight Inflammation and Heart Disease
Brussels sprouts health benefits include increased protection against heart disease and other inflammatory health conditions. The Vitamin K, Vitamin C and other antioxidants in Brussels sprouts work to reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, fight high blood pressure and prevent plaque buildup. (2)
5. Restore Digestive Health
Brussels sprouts health benefits also include a healthy digestive system. They contain glucosinolates, which help protect the lining of the digestive tract and stomach to reduce the risk of leaky gut syndrome and other digestive disorders. Brussels sprouts also aid in the detoxification process to prevent bacterial overgrowth in the gut.
6. Protect the Eyes and Skin
The Vitamin C and Vitamin A in Brussels sprouts help fight skin damage caused by UV rays. They also help promote healthy eyes. These vitamins work to naturally slow the aging process and boost the immune system while maintaining healthy skin and healthy eyes.
7. Promote Proper Nerve Function
Brussels sprouts health benefits include proper nerve function. They contain potassium, which plays a key role in maintaining the membrane structure of cells. Potassium also aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, which helps maintain a healthy heartbeat rhythm. (3)
8. Improve Brain Health
Brussels sprouts health benefits include improved brain health. The powerful antioxidants that Brussels sprouts contain work to stop oxidative stress and inflammation, which can damage brain cells.
9. Promote a Healthy Pregnancy
Brussels sprouts health benefits include the ability to promote a healthy pregnancy. Brussels sprouts contain folate, which is important for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy delivery. Folate helps the body produce new cells. It also plays a role in copying and synthesizing DNA.
