Brussels Sprouts Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable. Like broccoli and cabbage, Brussels sprouts are a member of the Brassica family. Brussels sprouts are small green vegetables that resemble tiny cabbages.¹

Brussels sprouts historically have been very popular in Belgium’s capital, Brussels, which is where the name comes from. Brussels sprouts have been enjoyed throughout Europe for hundreds of years. They were brought to North America in the 18th century and have since been a staple food in North American households.^1,2

Brussels Sprouts Health Uses and Health Benefits

Brussels sprouts offer plenty of health benefits because of their incredible nutrition. Brussels sprouts are high in both vitamins K and C with one serving reaching the daily requirements for both. Brussels sprouts also contain fiber, B vitamins, potassium, manganese and countless other nutrients.^1,2,3,4

Brussels sprouts are high in antioxidants, which help prevent cell damage throughout the body. Eating regular amounts of Brussels sprouts can help protect against disease and illness. Some of the important Brussels sprouts health benefits include:

• Helping “detox” the body 
• Protecting against cancer
• Building healthy bones
• Boosting the immune system 
• Reducing inflammation
• Lowering risk of heart disease
• Supporting digestive health 

Brussels sprouts medicinal uses include being an important dietary element for preventing the following conditions:

• Colorectal Cancer (Colon Cancer) - Brussels sprouts are important for protecting digestive health from tissue damage, which can help lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
• Bladder Cancer - Brussels sprouts medicinal uses include being able to protect against bladder cancer by killing free radicals.
• Prostate Cancer - Brussel sprouts health benefits include being able to fight DNA-mutations that may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
• Liver Cancer - Brussels sprouts contain unique plant compounds that can help lower the risk of developing liver cancer cells.
• Breast Cancer - Brussels sprouts can help lower chronic oxidative stress, which is believed to trigger breast tissue damage and increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

Brussels Sprouts Side Effects and Precautions

Brussels sprouts side effects are limited. Brussels sprouts being high in vitamin K may interact negatively with blood thinning medication.⁴

References

1. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=10
2. https://draxe.com/brussels-sprouts-nutrition/
3. http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/11/16/benefits-brussels-sprouts.aspx
4. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000725.htm