4 main reasons why Brussels sprouts should be a part of your daily intake

Krupa Niddhi

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Former Entrepreneur 4y

4 main reasons why Brussels sprouts should be a part of your daily intake:

1. Brussels sprouts fight oxidative stress.
   According to nutritionist Annamaria Louloudis, Brussels sprouts are rich in glucosinolates - more specifically glucobrassins and glucoraphanin - which work to neutralize bad free radicals and reduce the effects of oxidative damage over time. These bad molecules that damage us can cause oxidative stress and lead to chronic illness like cancer or heart disease but when we increase our antioxidant intake we fight back with some well-balanced plant based foods like Brussels sprouts. As if that wasn’t enough, the brassica family contains even more antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin A, manganese—giving us an AA++ health rating on any other food!
2. They reduce inflammation, too.
   Brussels sprouts are so rich in antioxidants that they can actually help combat stress and inflammation. This is because oxidative stress can promote inflammation (and vice versa), as noted by Oxidative Medicine & Cellular Longevity. And Brussels sprouts are one of the richest sources of alpha-lipoic acid, a special antioxidant that can reduce inflammation better than almost any other antioxidant supplements on the market today. Dozens of studies have shown that ALA helps control inflammatory enzymes, leading to reports such as The journal Nutrition & Metabolism reporting that alpha-linolenic acid is associated with reducing inflammation naturally.
3. They're high in fiber and support gut health.
   Brussels sprouts are underrated and misunderstood. It's a member of the cruciferous family, which is categorized by their cabbage-like taste. Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber - a nutrient that aids digestion and keeps the digestive track clear from blockages. Additionally, Brussels sprouts contain beneficial bacteria as they’re rich in fiber, which helps balance good bacteria to bad, protecting your gut (which is imperative for general health.)
4. Brussels sprouts stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing your risk for diabetes.
   The soluble fiber in Brussels sprouts can also regulate blood sugar. Here's how: As mentioned earlier, soluble fiber forms a gel-like substance in the gut. The gel slows the absorption of sugar from other foods, according to the Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences. This prevents blood sugar spikes, and therefore, those dreaded energy crashes. It also decreases your risk of type 2 diabetes, a condition that's linked to frequent spikes in blood sugar.
   The ALA in Brussels sprouts can help manage blood sugar, too. According to Ivanir, ALA increases insulin sensitivity, meaning your cells can efficiently take up glucose to control blood sugar levels.