Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

No one knows the origin of Brussels sprouts, though it's logical to assume they originated in Belgium. Like nearly all vegetables, Brussels sprouts are naturally low in fat and calories.

But unlike most vegetables, Brussels sprouts are rather high in protein, accounting for more than a quarter of their calories. Although the protein is incomplete -- it doesn't provide the full spectrum of essential amino acids -- it can be made complete with whole grains. This means you can skip a higher-calorie source of protein, like high-fat meat, and occasionally rely on a meal of Brussels sprouts and grains.

Brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamin A, folacin, potassium, calcium. They have 3-5 grams of fiber per cup, and at 25 calories per 1/2 cup cooked, they give us a reason to eat them more often. Brussels sprouts are one of those foods that will fill you up, without filling you out.

Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are very high in fiber, and they belong to the disease-fighting cabbage family. Indeed, they look like miniature cabbages. Like broccoli and cabbage -- fellow cruciferous vegetables -- Brussels sprouts may protect against cancer with their indole, a phytochemical.

Brussels sprouts are also particularly rich in vitamin C, another anti-cancer agent. Whether you choose them for their healthiness or because you love Brussels sprouts, one thing is certain: You will be getting a good-for-the-body food that is high in protein and low in fat and calories.

Brussels Sprouts, Fresh, Cooked
Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories 30
Fat
 <1 g
Saturated Fat
 0 g
Cholesterol
 0 mg
Carbohydrate
 7 g
Protein
 2 g
Dietary Fiber 2 g
Sodium
 17 mg
Vitamin A
 604 IU
Vitamin C
 48 mg
Folic Acid
 47 mcg
Iron
 1 mg
Potassium
 247 mg
Carotenoids
 1,369 micrograms

Want more information about Brussels sprouts? Try:
  • Cooking Brussels Sprouts: Learn how to prepare Brussels sprouts.
  • Vegetable Gardens: Grow a full harvest of great vegetables this year.
  • Nutrition: Find out if eating Brussels sprouts fits in with your overall nutrition goals.
  • Gardening: We answer your questions about all things that come from the garden.
This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.