Ways Brussels Sprouts Benefit Your HealthReading time: 11 min

Low-alkaline diets offer many health benefits that are locking in foodies and dietitians from all over the world. With this latest craze in nutrition, we will show you the benefits of incorporating brussels sprouts into your diet and what it would mean for your health.

Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable that is high in antioxidants and fiber. These nutrients have been shown to help protect the body against several health problems, including cancer. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the numerous benefits of brussels sprouts and how adding them to your low-alkaline diet can help improve your overall health.

We will also provide tips on how to cook brussels sprouts in a way that maximizes their health benefits and makes them taste great – whether you love them or hate them!

Physical Description

The little sprouts resemble cabbage in their appearance. In fact, they are a type of cabbage that can either be eaten raw (with a dash of balsamic vinegar for flavor), boiled, or baked. They’re typically light green in color and have a slightly bitter taste. 

History and Production

The sprouts are grown in Europe and, most notably, in Brussels (hence the name). Actually, they are believed to have originated in France where the name was first coined in the 18th century, but they were first cultivated in the Brussels district of Belgium around the year 1500.

The cultivation intensified during the 19th century as demand for this type of cabbage grew significantly. By the early 1900s, Brussels had become the world’s leading producer of brussels sprouts. Today, Brussels remains one of the leading producers and accounts for a large percentage of global production. California and New York are the leading growers in the US.

Nutrients per Serving

You are looking at a cruciferous vegetable that is high in antioxidants and vitamins. They are also a good source of dietary fiber (3.8g per 100g), vitamin C (85mg per 100g), and potassium (389mg per 100g). These nutritional values make the little sprouts one of your best options in alkaline-promoting foods.

Some of the health benefits you can expect from sprouts in your low-alkalinity diet include:

• They may reduce the risk of some types of cancer.
• They can help reduce inflammation related to conditions like arthritis and asthma.
• They can help improve cognitive function and memory recall.

What Does Acidic/Alkaline Mean?

The difference between acid and alkaline foods is that alkaline foods have a higher pH level (7-9), while acidic foods have a lower pH level (6.5-6.8). Thus, the higher the pH level, the more alkaline the food.

Too much acid in your diet can cause stomach problems because it can increase the natural acidity of the stomach’s own gastric juice. This causes damage to the stomach walls, leading to inflammation and even ulcers. Alkaline foods, on the other hand, help to neutralize stomach acidity and protect the stomach from damage.

Ph Value of Brussel Sprouts

Although brussels sprouts have a Ph that reflects closer toward acidic foods they are still alkalizing to the body. This means that a pH of between 6.00 – 6.30 help regulate and maintain the pH levels of your body by reducing the level of acids that you may have in your stomach. 

The low-fat content found in them and other greens such as broccoli, asparagus, and peas are known to prevent and also alleviate acid reflux. Together with its low-fat and carbohydrate content, the low pH level also offsets the high pH of the stomach (if you are experiencing acid reflux). 

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Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

Like cabbage, sprouts are high in phenolic compounds. These compounds are hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives and have an overall positive effect on your health. Some of the most important derivates include catechins and sulforaphane.

Catechins are antioxidants that protect your cells from dreaded damage by free radicals. For the sake of vanity, we all want to fight off signs of premature aging.

 Sulforaphane, on the other hand, is a plant-based compound that has anti-cancer properties. Together, these two compounds help to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic diseases.

They also contain vitamins like B6 as well as minerals such as magnesium and potassium. All these nutrients help to energize you and improve your mood.

Aside from their health benefits, they are also delicious! Granted, the sprouts do have an acquired taste that does not suit every palette, but when prepared right, they are absolutely scrummy!

1 – High in Nutrients

One of the most important nutrients the sprouts contain is vitamin C. As we know by now, this is crucial for your immune system to fight infections and boost your DNA synthesis. 

Like carrots, sprouts also provide antioxidant nutrients like beta-carotene and vitamin E, which can help protect you against cancer and other diseases. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. With a whopping 42mg of calcium per 100 grams, you should always aim to add them to your diet. Sometimes an alkaline diet can lack calcium. 

2 – Rich in Antioxidants

As we’ve illustrated, brussels sprouts are a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can improve your health in several ways.

First and foremost, antioxidants are responsible for protecting cells from damage. This is why they’re often used to fight against diseases like cancer and heart disease. 

They also contain sulfides, which have antioxidant properties of their own. This help to protect the liver and lungs from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, the extra fiber can help with digestion and normal blood sugar levels. Finally, they’re low in calories and cholesterol-free, making them an ideal food choice for people who want to get a handle on their weight and cholesterol..

3 – High in Fiber

The high fiber helps to keep you feeling full and satiated for longer – an ideal start to any weight loss journey. There is a lot of debate surrounding the effects of fiber on an alkaline diet. Some people believe that fiber can help to balance the pH levels in the body, while others contend that there are no benefits to adding more fiber to an already alkaline diet.

4 – Rich in Vitamin K

Vitamin K is essential for the proper functioning of blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It also helps to maintain healthy skin and nails, and it assists in the absorption of other nutrients.

So how does vitamin K contribute to an alkaline and high pH diet? Is it healthy? That should be an obvious and resounding yes! Foods that are high in vitamin K include leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, soy products (such as tofu), fortified foods (such as breakfast cereals), skim milk, and low-fat dairy products. The recommended daily intake of vitamin K is 70 micrograms for adults. In a single cup, you can expect about 159 micrograms of vitamin K

5 – May Help Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Brussels sprouts also contain sulforaphane, an important phytonutrient that promises cardiovascular benefits. Sulforaphane has been linked to lower blood pressure and inflammation, which may improve heart health overall.

With several large-scale studies revealing that there is a strong link between an alkaline diet and improved insulin resistance, you should consider introducing more sprouts into an alkaline diet.

6 – May Reduce Inflammation

The significant amounts of sulforaphane also lend the little cabbages potent anti-inflammatory properties. Many studies have also proven that one of the anti-aging effects of an alkaline diet is that it has the power to decrease inflammation and cause an increase in growth hormone production. That being said, you can expect great results when looking to alleviate inflammation. 

7 – High in Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps to promote the absorption of other nutrients from food, promotes immune system function, and supports collagen production.

One study showed that people who ate brussels regularly showed a decreased risk of developing cancer over time. Additionally, studies have shown that consuming vitamin C in combination with other antioxidants can help improve the skin’s appearance and reduce fine wrinkles and age spots. You can expect around 85mg of this in every 100 grams of sprouts. 

8 – Easy to Add to Your Diet

This cruciferous little guy is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In addition, it’s low in calories (just 80 per cup), so it can be a healthy snack or part of your regular meal plan. You will only benefit by introducing enough calcium into your diet or just slowly transitioning into an alkaline diet. 

Brussels Sprouts Recipes

Brussels sprouts are the perfect food as a side dish, but you may not be familiar with it – or how to prepare it. In the words of Todd English:

“Brussel sprouts are misunderstood, mostly because most people don’t know how to cook them properly.”

Below are two recipes that are perfect for high-pH Alkaline diets. 

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Pecans

Brussels sprouts may not be everyone’s favorite, but they are worth trying – especially roasted. This recipe for roasted brussels sprouts with pecans is a delicious way to show them off to perfection.

Ingredients:

1. 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee (clarified butter)
3. 1/2 cup chopped onion (~0.75 ounces)
4. 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
5. 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
6. 3 tablespoons slivered almonds, toasted (~0.36 ounces)

Recipe Notes:  Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Place cut sprouts into a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper Cut one inch deep into the top of each brussels sprout using a sharp knife Then drizzle generously with olive oil /ghee. Bake until slightly browned around the edges and tender when pierced with a fork – about 20 minutes total. Bake without nuts if desired as well. If you prefer something meatier, add some bacon into the mix for a delicious smokey taste.

Spicy Asian Chicken with Brussels Sprouts

This spicy Asian chicken with brussels sprouts is a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick and easy to make, and it’ll leave you feeling full and satisfied. Either use this recipe to slowly transition into an alkaline diet, or use it as a once-in-a-while treat. 

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (or thighs)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari sauce
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced                                                 
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 、
• pinch of cayenne pepper if desired ‌
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth （if using canned broth, reduce sodium by adding salt）‌
• 2 cups shredded brussels sprouts （6 ounces before cooking), packed lightly into the center of each bowl before adding the chicken breasts）
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (as needed)

Directions: In a large resealable bag combine soy sauce or tamari sauce, ginger, garlic powder, honey or agave nectar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add chicken; turn to coat evenly. Seal the bag tightly; shake until coated evenly. Place in refrigerator for 30 minutes to marinate. If using canned broth rather than water dissolve dissolved salt in 3/4 cup of uncooked

The Brussels from Brussels

Brussels sprouts are the perfect addition to an alkaline diet and will provide you will all the necessary nutrients and antioxidants needed for a healthier lifestyle. With delicious recipes and many ways to include it into already low Ph meals, brussels sprouts can be a surprisingly healthy and low acidity ingredient to embark on your high alkaline diet.