Incorporating greens and vegetables into your regimen is recommended by almost every dietician and nutritionist. Although not the most popular green, brussels sprouts are a great source of various nutrients, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Here are the top health benefits your body can gain from eating brussel sprouts daily.
Rich in antioxidants
Brussels sprouts are packed with antioxidants—compounds known to promote healthy cells and to fight against chronic disease and cancer. One study that surveyed participants who ate around two cups (300 grams) of brussels sprouts everyday saw that they experienced a 28% decrease in cell damage from oxidative stress. Researchers concluded that regular consumption of brussel sprouts may reduce peoples’ cancer risk.
Reduced risk of heart disease.
It is known that fruits and vegetables packed with Vitamin C can prevent the development of chronic heart disease. Vitamin C also plays a role in the maintenance of a healthy and strong immune system.
Maintains healthy blood sugar.
Like many greens and vegetables, brussels sprouts can help maintain healthy, normal blood sugar levels and an overall decreased risk to diabetes. The cruciferous vegetables are packed with fiber—a nutrient that helps regulate the body’s use of sugars, thus keeping hunger and blood sugar in check. Brussels sprouts also have alpha-lipoic acid, an antioxidant that has been extensively studied for its potential effects on blood sugar and insulin levels.
Promotes glowing skin.
Another impressive benefit of brussels sprouts’ key nutrient: vitamin C. Many skincare brands use vitamin C to build healthy, glowing skin. Not only does it have its own skin-brightening purposes, but vitamin C contributes to the production of collagen, which firms and brightens the skin as well.
May reduce inflammation.
Inflammation is quite normal for most individuals, however, in certain scenarios, it can hold much more serious implications. Cruciferous vegetables such as brussels sprouts and arugula have been known to carry anti-inflammatory properties. Also, the abundance of antioxidants found in brussels sprouts can also aid with fighting inflammation.
Improve gut health.
Fiber is an essential nutrient to the gut’s regulation and health. Fiber is not only a great way to prevent constipation, but it can lower your risk of colorectal cancer, as will be discussed further.
Help fight against cancer.
Certain studies suggest that brussels sprouts may help protect against certain kinds of cancer because of the many nutrients and high levels of antioxidants found in the greens. A 2008 study discovered that brussel sprouts could protect against carcinogens, or cancer-causing agents, as well as prevent oxidative damage to cells, while another study found that eating Brussels sprouts increased the levels of some detoxification enzymes by 15–30%, which could possibly decrease the risk of colorectal cancer.
