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October 16, 2023
September 16, 2024
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Brussels sprout, those miniature cabbage-like vegetables, are gaining popularity for their unique flavor and potential impact on blood sugar levels. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the often-overlooked glycemic index of Brussels sprout, shedding light on how they may be a valuable addition to the diets of individuals with type 2 diabetes. 

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Glycemic Index Table

The glycemic index (GI) of Brussels sprout is relatively low, with a value of around 32 when boiled and approximately 75 when roasted.¹ The GI measures how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a lower GI are digested and absorbed more slowly, resulting in a slower and steadier increase in blood sugar.

For a serving size of 100 grams of boiled Brussels sprout, the carbohydrate content is approximately 8 grams. When calculating the glycemic load (GL) per serving, which takes into account both the GI and the carbohydrate content, we can use the formula:

GL = (GI x Carbohydrate content per serving) / 100

For boiled Brussels sprout:

GL = (32 x 8) / 100 ≈ 2.56

So, the glycemic load for 100 grams of boiled Brussels sprout is approximately 2.56.

For roasted Brussels sprout, the GI is higher (around 75), but the carbohydrate content remains approximately 8 grams. Using the same formula:

GL = (75 x 8) / 100 ≈ 6

The glycemic load for 100 grams of roasted Brussels sprout is approximately 6.

It's important to note that cooking methods can influence the GI of foods. Boiling results in a lower GI than roasting because it causes less starch gelatinization. This means that boiled Brussels sprout have a milder impact on blood sugar levels than roasted ones.

These values provide valuable information for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels. Incorporating boiled Brussels sprout into meals may be a preferable choice for better glycemic control compared to roasted Brussels sprout.

Glycemic Index

32

Serving Size

100g

Carbohydrate* per Serving (g)

8 g

GL per Serving

2.00

Nutritional Facts

Brussels sprout are a nutritional powerhouse, boasting an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They are particularly rich in vitamin K, providing over 100% of the recommended daily intake per 100-gram serving, which plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. Additionally, Brussels sprout are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, and various antioxidants, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

The nutritional information below is for 100 g of Brussels sprout.²

Calories

111.95 kcal

Carbs

8 g

Protein

3.94 g

Fiber

3.04 g

Cholesterol

8 mg

Vitamins

A (52.15 µg), B12 (0.05 µg), B6 (0.19 mg), C (59.96 mg), D (2.2 IU).

Sodium

177.18 mg

Total Fat

7.38 g

Are Brussels Sprout Good for Weight Loss?

For several reasons, Brussels sprout can be a valuable addition to a weight-loss diet. They are low in calories, with approximately 43 calories per 100-gram serving, making them a suitable choice for calorie-conscious individuals. Additionally, Brussels sprout are high in dietary fiber, promoting feelings of fullness and satiety and potentially reducing overall calorie intake. Moreover, they offer a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring you receive essential nutrients while managing your weight.

Furthermore, Brussels sprout contain compounds like sulforaphane, which has been associated with potential anti-obesity effects by influencing adipose tissue and metabolism.⁴ ⁵

Incorporating Brussels sprout into a balanced diet emphasizing whole foods and mindful eating can be a beneficial strategy for weight management. However, it's important to remember that weight loss depends on overall dietary patterns and lifestyle choices.

Are Brussels Sprout Safe for People Living with Diabetes?

Brussels sprout can be a safe and beneficial addition to the diet of individuals with diabetes. They are low in carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels when consumed in moderation. Additionally, Brussels sprout are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate, which can support overall health and well-being.

Furthermore, Brussels sprout contain compounds like sulforaphane, which has shown potential in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing oxidative stress, which are important factors in managing diabetes.⁶

However, it's essential for individuals with diabetes to be mindful of portion sizes and cooking methods. Boiling or steaming Brussels sprout is preferable, as these methods have a lower GI than roasting. Additionally, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to incorporate Brussels sprout into a personalized diabetes management plan.

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Allergies

While Brussels sprout are generally considered a healthy vegetable, some may experience allergic reactions. Allergic reactions to Brussels sprout can include symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling of the face, mouth, or throat, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases.³

It's important to note that Brussels sprout allergies are relatively rare. Still, individuals with a known allergy to other cruciferous vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower should exercise caution when consuming Brussels sprout.³

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FAQs

What is Glycemic Index?

The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar levels compared to a reference food, usually glucose. It ranks foods on a scale from 0 to 100, with higher values indicating a faster rise in blood sugar. The glycemic index (GI) scale is typically categorized as follows: Low GI [55 or less], Medium GI [56-69], High GI [70 or higher]. Foods with a high glycemic index digest rapidly and can cause dramatic fluctuations in blood glucose or glucose spikes.

What is Glycemic Load?

Glycemic load (GL) takes into account both the quality (glycemic index) and quantity (carbohydrate content) of carbohydrates in a specific serving of food. It is a measure of how much a particular food will raise blood sugar levels. GL is calculated by multiplying the glycemic index of a food by its carbohydrate content and dividing it by 100. It provides a more accurate representation of the overall impact of a food on blood sugar compared to the glycemic index alone.

Does Brussels Sprout Spike Insulin?

No, Brussels sprout do not spike insulin levels. In fact, Brussels sprout are considered a low glycemic index food, meaning they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels and insulin secretion. They are also high in fiber and protein, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Are Brussels Sprout Low Glycemic?

Yes, Brussels sprout are low glycemic as they have a glycemic index of 15.

Can People Living with Diabetes Eat Brussels Sprout?

Yes, people living with diabetes can eat Brussels sprout as they are low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. However, it is important to monitor portion sizes and overall carbohydrate intake.

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References

  1. The University of Sydney. (2023, May 1). Glycemic Index – Glycemic Index Research and GI Newshttps://glycemicindex.com/
  2. USDA Food Data Central. (2019, April 1). Food Details - Brussels sprout, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt. Retrieved from https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169971/nutrients
  3. Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). (n.d.). Brussels sprout. https://www.foodallergy.org/common-allergens/brussels-sprout
  4. Sedlak, T. W., & Snyder, S. H. (2004). Bilirubin benefits: cellular protection by a biliverdin reductase antioxidant cycle. Pediatrics, 113(6), 1776–1782. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.113.6.1776 
  5. Houghton, C. A., Fassett, R. G., & Coombes, J. S. (2013). Sulforaphane: translational research from laboratory bench to clinic. Nutrition reviews, 71(11), 709–726. https://doi.org/10.1111/nure.12060 
  6. National Institutes of Health. (2021). Cruciferous vegetables and cancer preventionhttps://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/cruciferous-vegetables-fact-sheet 

About the author

It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout.

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About the author

Brittany Barry is a national board-certified health coach and NASM-certified personal trainer based in South Carolina.

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Please note: The Signos team is committed to sharing insightful and actionable health articles that are backed by scientific research, supported by expert reviews, and vetted by experienced health editors. The Signos blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. Read more about our editorial process and content philosophy here.

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