Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are members of the Brassica family and therefore akin to broccoli and cabbage. They resemble miniature cabbages, with diameters of about 1 inch. They grow in bunches of 20 to 40 on the stem of a plant that grows as high as three feet tall. Brussels sprouts are typically sage green in colour, although some varieties feature a red hue. They are oftentimes sold separately but can sometimes be found in stores still attached to the stem. Perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts will have a crisp, dense texture and a slightly sweet, bright and green taste.

• They are high in Vitamin C -One of the things that you may not know about Brussels sprouts is that they are one of the vegetables that are highest in Vitamin C. Four ounces of Brussels sprouts contains about 100 mg of Vitamin C - when it is not yet cooked. When it is cooked thoroughly, it will contain about 40 mg of Vitamin C. If you want to get the most Vitamin C out of your Brussels sprouts but still cook them, the best thing that you can do is steam them to a point where they are still a bit crispy.
• Many types of vegetables have been proven to protect the body against developing certain types of cancer. Brussels sprouts are no exception. The reason that Brussels sprouts can help prevent the body from developing cancer is because they contain Glucosinolates and antioxidants. Some of the types of cancer that Brussels sprouts may help protect the body against include breast, colon and prostate.
• As with a wide variety of other vegetables, Brussels sprouts are known to contain a fairly high amount of fibre. This essential nutrient is just very healthy for the body, in general. It can help you maintain a regular digestive system, fight cancer and regulate both blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
• Brussels sprouts are a good source of potassium, which can also be found in potatoes and bananas. In regards to nutrient deficiencies, potassium deficiency is known to be one of the more common types of deficiencies.