Healing Food Series: Brussels Sprouts

Nutrition is a natural protector and one of the best ways to change or prevent different illnesses. What we put into our bodies plays a huge roll in our lives and understanding and knowing what some of these foods are is beneficial to living a healthy lifestyle. Because of this I’ve posted a particular food each month that can be used to heal the body and bolster good gut health. For our last and final month in this series the focus is on Brussels Sprouts.

Brussels Sprouts are small vegetables resembling mini cabbages and make a healthy addition to any diet. They boast high levels of many nutrients and have been linked to several health benefits. I’ve included some of these below.

1. Brussels sprouts are low in calories but high in many nutrients, especially fiber, vitamin K and vitamin C.

2. Brussels Sprouts have an impressive antioxidant content. Antioxidants are compounds that help lower your risk of chronic disease, reduce the risk for cancer,  decrease inflammation and promote heart health.

3. Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, which can promote regularity, support digestive health and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

4. Brussels sprouts are high in vitamin K, a nutrient important for blood clotting and bone metabolism.

5. Brussels sprouts are one of the best plant sources of ALA omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation, insulin resistance, cognitive decline and blood triglycerides.

6. Brussels sprouts are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that’s important for immune health, iron absorption, collagen production and the growth and repair of tissues.

Brussels sprouts are simple to prepare and  can be enjoyed in a variety of delicious side dishes and main courses. A simple recipe, and how I most often eat them, is sprinkled with a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper, then roasted on a baking sheet until crispy. If your like me and want to find other ways to include this vegetable into your diet, I’ve got you covered with additional recipes below.

Roasted Fall Vegetables and Savory Tempeh – Sheet Pan Dinner
Cozy Peach Kitchen

Crispy SunButter Brussels Sprouts
Chelsey Amer Nutrition

Maple Mustard Brussels Sprouts
The Gourmet RD

Chicken Sausage and Veggie Bake with Tahini Dressing
Key Ingredients

Plant Power Grain Bowl
Key Ingredients

Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Vegan Cheese
The Urben Life

Rustic Potato and Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin
Nourish

Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Citrus Vinaigrette
Kroll’s Korner

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Glaze
Jessica Levinson

Maple Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussel Sprouts & Cranberries
Kelly Jones Nutrition

Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad
Chelsey Amer Nutrition

Balsamic Maple Rosemary Roasted Veggies (Vegan)
Bucket List Tummy

Sheet Pan Garlic Tofu & Brussels Sprouts
Emily Kyle Nutrition

Other post from my Healing Foods Series:
January: Citrus
Februray: Broccoli
March: Artichokes
April: Salmon
May: Berries
June: Eggplant
July: Bell Peppers
August: Flaxseeds
September: Apples
October: Pumpkin
November: Sweet Potatoes