Brussels sprouts may look like baby cabbages, but don’t let their small size fool you—they’re packed with nutrients that can do wonders for your health. These green powerhouses are loaded with vitamins C and K, both of which are essential for a strong immune system and healthy bones. Just one cup of cooked Brussels sprouts provides over 150% of your daily requirement of vitamin K and nearly your full daily dose of vitamin C (U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2020; National Institutes of Health, 2022). That’s right—move over oranges, Brussels sprouts are quietly flexing in the produce aisle.
One of the biggest benefits of Brussels sprouts is their high fiber content. Fiber keeps your digestive system happy, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full longer—which means fewer snack raids on the cookie jar. According to the Mayo Clinic (2021), fiber also supports heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels. In other words, Brussels sprouts are like a personal trainer for your digestive system, but way less expensive and much less judgmental.
Brussels sprouts are also rich in antioxidants, particularly kaempferol, which research has linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart health (Healthline, 2020; National Library of Medicine, 2015). Antioxidants act like tiny bodyguards, protecting your cells from damage caused by free radicals—those pesky unstable molecules that contribute to chronic diseases. Translation: adding more Brussels sprouts to your plate might just help you fight off long-term health issues while keeping your body running smoothly.
Finally, these little green gems may even support detoxification. Compounds called glucosinolates found in Brussels sprouts help activate enzymes that assist your body in processing and eliminating toxins (American Institute for Cancer Research, 2019). Think of them as your body’s natural cleanup crew. Combined with their ability to support bone health, immunity, and digestion, Brussels sprouts are truly a nutritional multitasker. So the next time you see them on a restaurant menu—or in the frozen foods aisle—give them the respect they deserve.
Quick & Tasty Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
To your health,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
@SuperiorSelf channel on YouTube
@superiorselfwithkjlandis on TikTok
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
References
One of the biggest benefits of Brussels sprouts is their high fiber content. Fiber keeps your digestive system happy, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full longer—which means fewer snack raids on the cookie jar. According to the Mayo Clinic (2021), fiber also supports heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels. In other words, Brussels sprouts are like a personal trainer for your digestive system, but way less expensive and much less judgmental.
Brussels sprouts are also rich in antioxidants, particularly kaempferol, which research has linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart health (Healthline, 2020; National Library of Medicine, 2015). Antioxidants act like tiny bodyguards, protecting your cells from damage caused by free radicals—those pesky unstable molecules that contribute to chronic diseases. Translation: adding more Brussels sprouts to your plate might just help you fight off long-term health issues while keeping your body running smoothly.
Finally, these little green gems may even support detoxification. Compounds called glucosinolates found in Brussels sprouts help activate enzymes that assist your body in processing and eliminating toxins (American Institute for Cancer Research, 2019). Think of them as your body’s natural cleanup crew. Combined with their ability to support bone health, immunity, and digestion, Brussels sprouts are truly a nutritional multitasker. So the next time you see them on a restaurant menu—or in the frozen foods aisle—give them the respect they deserve.
Quick & Tasty Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
To your health,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
@SuperiorSelf channel on YouTube
@superiorselfwithkjlandis on TikTok
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
References
- U.S. Department of Agriculture. FoodData Central (2020).
- National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin C & Vitamin K (2022).
- Mayo Clinic. “Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet” (2021).
- Healthline. “Brussels Sprouts: Nutrition, Benefits, and How to Cook Them” (2020).
- National Library of Medicine. “Kaempferol and Inflammation” (2015).
- American Institute for Cancer Research. “Cruciferous Vegetables and Cancer Prevention” (2019)
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