Have you had your Brussel Sprouts this week? Well, you are missing out. This is one vegetables you must have as a part of your regular diet.You will not be disappointed.

As a child I grew up with my mother fixing Brussel Sprouts often, they were mushy, and down right gross, so I thought. Just in the last four years I have grown very fond of them. As a matter of fact, I prepare them pretty darn good, if I must say so myself. Lol, poor dog won’t wag his own tail, lol.

This wonderful vegetable is so good, many times I can eat a bowl of Brussel Sprouts and nothing else, they are so satisfying. I am excited about this new way of healthy living, and all the ways I am able to prepare and eat all the new foods that I am currently experiencing. I know, I know, you have been eating this way all your life. Well it’s new for me, and as a matter of fact I didn’t even think it possible to enjoy an all vegetable meal , minus the meat. Especially since I was a carnivore.

The Nutritional Value

Brussels sprouts are part of a group of food called cruciferous vegetables which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, cabbage, collards, kale, and others. Studies show that cruciferous plants are some of the healthiest, most nutrient-dense, foods out there. Brussels sprouts are rich in a wide variety of nutrients including antioxidant carotenoids, B-complex vitamins, vitamins A, C, and K, and an essential health-boosting compound called sulforaphane. There are many ways in which Brussels sprouts can improve your health, so read on to find out how!

Reduces the risk of cancer Brussels sprouts contain an impressive line-up of antioxidants including beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and glucosinolates. Sulforaphane—a potent antioxidant phytochemical also obtained from cruciferous vegetables—is produced when glucoraphanin (a type of glucosinolate) is converted through a chemical reaction. Glucosinolates are sulfur-containing compounds, and they’ve been researched extensively for their anti-cancer effects.

They’ve been shown to inhibit the growth and development of cancer by protecting cell DNA, inactivating carcinogens, inducing cancer cell death, and providing anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show that Brussels sprouts can reduce the risk of many types of cancer including prostate, colorectal, lung, stomach, bladder, skin, and breast. Glucosinolates are found in all cruciferous vegetables; however, Brussels sprouts are at the top of the list for total glucosinolate content and most commonly eaten cruciferous vegetable.

Lowers blood pressure

Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of many blood pressure reducing nutrients including fiber, potassium, and anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Half a cup of Brussels sprouts contains 247 milligrams (mg) of potassium, which is 7 percent of your recommended daily intake (RDI). Potassium helps to lower blood pressure by negating the effects of sodium—which raises blood pressure. The antioxidants in Brussels sprouts reduce inflammation all over the body–including in the blood vessels. When the blood vessels are more relaxed, blood pressure is reduced, lowering the risk of atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

Lowers cholesterol levels

Research shows that Brussels sprouts have bile acid binding properties. This means that they stick to cholesterol and guide it out of the digestive system so that it doesn’t get absorbed into the bloodstream. Raw Brussels sprouts have the most potent bile acid binding capabilities. Second, comes steamed brussels sprouts. People with high cholesterol have an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Eating cholesterol-reducing foods, like Brussels sprouts can significantly impact your health for the better.

Strengthens bones

Note that Vitamin K is an essential nutrient for healthly bones— Brussels sprouts contain plenty of Vitamin K. In just half a cup of Brussels sprouts, you get 137 percent of your RDI of vitamin K. The body needs vitamin K in order to build bones. Studies show that people with higher levels of vitamin K also have higher bone density. This is especially important for postmenopausal women, who are at risk of developing osteoporosis and are prone to fractures. Vitamin K can reduce this risk by strengthening the bones. There are other health benefits from eating Brussel Sprouts.

Supports a healthy pregnancy

Manages blood sugar levels and diabetes symptoms

Reduces inflammation

Cures constipation

Reduces the risk of cancer

Lowers blood pressure