Brussels sprouts, or Brassica oleracea gemmifera, are related to other better-known vegetables in the brassica genus like broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. They are part of the cruciferae or mustard family, so known because of a four-part flower in the shape of a cross. Brussels sprouts are a small round vegetable consisting of many green leaves wrapped tightly around each other, like a cabbage but smaller.

History and Origin
Sprouts were believed to have been cultivated in Italy in Roman times, and possibly as early as the 1200s in Belgium. The modern Brussels sprout that we are familiar with was first cultivated in large quantities in Belgium (hence the name "Brussels" sprouts) as early as 1587

Nutrient Database - USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

Reference Values for Nutrition - FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Excellent for eye health (Brussels sprouts, rich in Vitamin C, are excellent for eye health because Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant to protect the eyes from free radical damage, helping to prevent conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration). They also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which further support vision by absorbing damaging light and neutralizing free radicals.

Diabetes management (Brussels sprouts, along with other foods and supplements, contain the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), which has been studied for its benefits in managing diabetes and its complications, such as diabetic neuropathy). ALA's ability to improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar, and protect nerves makes it a potential therapeutic agent for diabetics, though it can also cause side effects like hypoglycaemia and requires consultation with a healthcare professional.

Significantly lower risk of developing advanced age-related macular degeneration (Brussels sprouts contain the antioxidants zeaxanthin and lutein, which are crucial for eye health because they filter harmful blue light and protect against oxidative damage from free radicals, a primary mechanism in the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Studies show that a diet rich in these carotenoids, found abundantly in leafy greens like Brussels sprouts, is associated with a significantly lower risk of developing advanced AMD.

Detox support (For detox support rich in sulfur-containing nutrients, incorporate sulfur-rich foods like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, onions, and garlic into your diet). These vegetables contain glycosylates, which convert to compounds that enhance liver enzymes and aid in toxin excretion. 

Maintain healthy bone tissue (Brussels sprouts contribute to bone health due to their high vitamin K content, which is vital for forming proteins essential for bone mineralization and strength, helping to prevent fractures and maintain healthy bone tissue). Vitamin K ensures calcium is deposited in bones and teeth rather than soft tissues like arteries. Additionally, Brussels sprouts also contain calcium, another essential nutrient for strong bones. 

Protection against certain cancers (Brussels sprouts contain the sulfur-based phytonutrient sulforaphane, which research suggests may offer protection against certain cancers by inhibiting carcinogen activation, promoting cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and reducing DNA damage).

The Cancer Research (Brussels sprouts pack fiber and are filled with nutrients and phytochemicals with the potential to stave off cancer). These compounds bolster antioxidant and DNA defences and promote healthy cell signalling.

Support cardiovascular health (Brussels sprouts help protect against heart disease through their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, driven by compounds like sulforaphane, which reduce inflammation and protect against damage). They also contain beneficial fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, and antioxidants that support overall cardiovascular health, helping to lower cholesterol, maintain healthy blood pressure, and protect arteries.

Reduce the chronic inflammation often linked to obesity (Brussels sprouts help combat obesity by being low-calorie, high-fiber, and potent in anti-inflammatory compounds that target fat cells). Their fiber promotes satiety, helping with weight management and balanced blood sugar, while the anti-inflammatory properties reduce the chronic inflammation often linked to obesity. Furthermore, their high nutrient density provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals relative to their calorie content. 

Brussels sprout - From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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