If you are looking for a vegetable that is rich in nutrients, is really flavorful, and is easy to prepare, look no further than Brussel Sprouts! This calciferous treat, named after a region in Belgium, is a close family member of broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and other similar vegetables.

Brussel Sprouts are an extremely nutritious vegetable and contain a large quantity of beneficial healthy compounds.

Let’s take a closer look at Brussel Sprouts, shall we?

The Brussel Sprouts Renaissance

Brussel Sprouts, not unlike broccoli, have had a long history of being loathed by a large swathe of the population. Thankfully, around 5 years ago, a renaissance of sorts started, and Brussel Sprouts became highly popular and accepted.

According to statistics published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Brussel Sprouts are particularly popular around the end of year holidays; particularly Thanksgiving and Christmas. Today, U.S yearly production of Brussel Sprouts hovers around the 30,000-ton mark, with an estimated market value of around $27 million.

10 Health Benefits of Eating Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #1: Antioxidant Rich

Brussel sprouts, offer excellent protection against the effects of free radicals, which are responsible for premature cell aging. The multitude of flavonoids contained within each shoot provides a plethora of antioxidants that protect us against a broad spectrum of diseases.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #2: Anti-inflammatory

It’s quite rare to find Omega-3-fatty acids in greens, but Brussel Sprouts contain them in spades. In fact, they are one of the most potent non-animal sources of this critical nutrient. Because of this, Brussel Sprouts convey a significant anti-inflammatory effect that can alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #3: Provide Dietary Fiber

Brussel Sprouts contain lots of fiber, which are beneficial to your gastrointestinal tract and can help speed up your digestive processes. They can generate a laxative effect and cure constipation. As if that weren’t enough, the fiber in Brussels Sprouts can help lower blood cholesterol levels as well as regulate blood glucose in diabetic patients.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #4: Boost Energy

Brussel Sprouts are rich in enzymes and a host of nutrients that can boost energy levels and provide a surge of vitality.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #5: Prevent Anemia

Brussel Sprouts contain a plethora of Iron, which in conjunction with Vitamins C and B6, increase the production of red blood cells, as well as helping improve oxygenation levels in one’s body.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #6: Promote Healthy Bones

By containing large amounts of calcium and vitamin K, Brussel Sprouts, if consumed regularly, can help maintain a healthy bone density. They are also great for dental health.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #7: Fight Hypertension

Brussel Sprouts contain high water content which, in combination with the potassium they contain, causes a strong diuretic effect. This makes them a great food to add to an antihypertensive diet.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #8: Rich in Folic Acid

Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9, is an essential nutrient that expectant mothers and developing fetuses require in abundance. Brussel Sprouts thus represent a fantastic and healthy food for pregnant women.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #9: Can Detox Your Body

Brussel Sprouts function as a potent detoxifier. Recent research has shown that the groups of hepatic enzymes that carry out the task of purifying our blood are strengthened with the compounds found in Brussels sprouts.

Brussels Sprouts Benefit #10: Sleep Aid

Brussel Sprouts contain no fat, very little sugar, and a great deal of dietary fiber. This nutrient ratio makes them a great food to eat for dinner before going to bed. Additionally, and this may surprise you, there is evidence to suggest that eating Brussel Sprouts regularly can combat snoring!

Need Ideas for your Next Brussels Sprouts Dish?

Here are three delicious and easy Brussel Sprout recipes to try:

Roughly chop some Brussel Sprouts that have been cooked in water. Add them and a clove of minced garlic to a hot pan that has been sprinkled with some extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Once browned, place them on a bed of endives and top with roasted red peppers and olives. Finally, toss with your favorite vinaigrette recipe and presto you have a healthy and great tasting salad.

Brussels Sprouts Dish Idea #2: Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

This is a fan-favorite recipe. Place 1.5 lbs Brussel Sprouts, trimmed and cut in halves into a gallon zip bag. Add 1 tbs Balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Close the bag and mix well for a minute making sure even coverage. Pre-heat oven at 400 degrees. Empty contents of zip bag onto a backing pan, spreading brussels sprouts evenly. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes. When done, add your favorite dry herbs and voila! You have a delicious Brussels Sprouts side dish.

Brussels Sprouts Dish Idea #3: Shredded Asian Brussels Sprouts

You’ll need 16 oz of shredded brussel sprouts, 1 tsp Sesame Oil, 1 tbs vegetable oil, 2 tbs fresh grated ginger, 1 minced garlic clove, ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce, 1 tbs honey, 1 tsp chili oil, 1 tbs sesame seeds. Shred your Brussels Sprouts in a food processor, heat your wok or a large cast iron pan and add sesame and vegetable oil. Toss in the ginger, garlic into the pan and heat until just fragrant. /now add the shredded Brussels Sprouts, saute for 2 to 3 minutes, then add soy sauce and honey and chili oil, stir and combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Sprinkle sesame seeds and serve.