One item that often divides the Christmas dinner table has been deemed one of the best things to put in our bodies. Love them or hate them - sprouts have the power to regulate gut health and even lower cholesterol. It's important to eat a varied diet that's rich in vegetables due to the different vitamins and minerals they deliver into our bodies. These all work hand-in-hand to benefit our bodies in plenty of areas - from better short-term health to preventing our long-term risk of developing other diseases.
According to a ranking by the BBC, Brussels sprouts are among some of the most nutritious foods in the world. It was claimed in the finding that these mini cabbages are "rich in calcium and vitamin C". Overall, sprouts placed 95th out of 100 on the list. But, that doesn't mean you should instantly discount these powerful little plants as they're packed with more than just two healthy perks.
The saying is true that sprouts often have us 'letting it all out' and that's due to the one natural compound. Depending on your portion size, sprouts could offer you as much as 4g fibre helping you hit the 30g a day target set by the NHS. Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables may help prevent many common cancers. However, to see any benefit, you'd have to eat them more than once a year.
This is because sprouts contain anti-cancer plant compounds, including glucosinolates, which help us detoxify and remove carcinogens from the body. Another study saw that adding more brassica vegetables (like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage) to your diet may reduce the risk of heart disease.
