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Brussels Sprouts: 12 Surprising Health Benefits & Nutritional Powerhouse

Ever had Brussels sprouts? Did you know that they come with many mind-blowing health advantages? These cabbage-like vegetables treat many common ailments and improve health to a great extent.

Want to know more about them and the amazing health benefits they offer? Go ahead and read on!

What Are Brussels Sprouts?

Looking like miniature cabbages, Brussels sprouts were first referenced in the 1200s. They are a cool weather crop with an earthy and nutty taste. Unlike cabbages, Brussels sprouts can be best consumed by putting them into a small amount of water, and then steaming, draining and immediately serving with a pinch of salt.

Let’s have a look at the amazing health benefits of Brussel Sprouts:

1. Can Treat Anemia:

Brussels sprouts are rich in iron content. This vital mineral along with vitamin B6 in the sprouts helps in the manufacture of red blood cells which treats anemia.

2. Can Promote Bone And Dental Health:

Brussels sprouts contain reservoirs of calcium. This aids in maintaining higher bone density and better dental health.

3. Good For The Heart:

This probably would be the most important benefit of Brussels sprouts. Also known as ‘little cabbages’, these help regulate blood circulation. This helps in the prevention of inflammation and helps one prevent or get rid of cardiovascular problems.

4. Plays Major Role In Cancer Prevention:

Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases plaguing humanity. Like a few other natural ingredients, Brussels sprouts also play a role in treating cancer. This vegetable belongs to the family of cabbage and broccoli, both being excellent antioxidants. The antioxidant indole, along with other healthy compounds, plays a role in cancer prevention.

5. Improves Health Of Digestive System:

Brussels sprouts contain the amino acid glutamine. Glutamine helps in repairing ulcers, detoxifying, healing and regenerating. The sprouts can be used for therapeutic purposes as well. Take the juice of these sprouts thrice a day on an empty stomach.

6. Boosts Energy:

These are natural energy boosters. The nutrients and rich enzymes present in Brussels sprouts provide the body with instant energy boost. They also help keep fatigue and weakness at bay.

7. Can Improve Colon Health:

Since Brussels sprouts have anti-inflammatory properties, they prevent chronic inflammation and some bowel conditions. The dietary fibres these are filled with aid in normal and smooth bowel movements.

8. Immune System:

Brussels sprouts contain a compound called histidine. These are helpful in treating certain allergies and regulating the T-cells in our immune system (1).

9. Aid In Weight Loss:

This should be a favourite for all those people struggling to lose weight. The low calorie and high protein content of Brussels sprouts make this vegetable perfect to be included in a weight loss diet. The nutrients they contain keep your body satiated, thereby diminishing your cravings.

10. Can Improve Vision And Prevent Vision Related Problems:

The presence of vitamin A makes this vegetable a must to maintain perfect vision. And the antioxidants help prevent cataract and numerous other eye problems.

11. Good For Pregnant Women:

This vegetable is rich in folate, an important compound that helps in the development of the foetus. It also prevents the occurrence of neurological defects in the foetus.

12. Can Maintain Blood Pressure:

Having irregular blood pressure levels is one common problem faced today. Brussels sprouts contain high amounts of potassium that helps regulate the cells of the body responsible for metabolic processes. This helps maintain normal blood pressure.

Though they look small, Brussels sprouts can make a huge impact on your health and overall well-being. So the next time you are off to the market, make sure you pick a pack of these wonder veggies!

Do you know of any other benefits of eating Brussels sprouts? Share with us by commenting in the box below!