Beetroot or Brussels Sprouts – Which is Healthier?

Our Verdict

When comparing beetroot to Brussels sprouts, we picked the sprouts.

Why?

Both have their strong benefits, but this was still quite one-sided:

In terms of macros, beetroot has more carbs while the sprouts have more fiber and protein, making this an easy win for sprouts in this category.

In the category of vitamins, beetroot has a little more vitamin B9, while the sprouts have a lot more of vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, C, E, and K, once again winning by a country mile.

Looking at minerals next, beetroot is higher in copper, while the sprouts have more calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, and zinc, for a third overwhelming win in a row.

In other considerations, both are abundant sources of polyphenols, and beetroot has betalains while sprouts have sulforaphane, both of which are great (see the “learn more” links below for details), so we’re calling this round a tie.

Adding up the sections makes for a very compelling overall win for Brussels sprouts, but do enjoy either or both, as diversity is great!

Want to learn more?

You might like:

• Beetroot For More Than Just Your Blood Pressure
• Sprouts & Sulforaphane ← this article talks mostly about broccoli sprouts rather than Brussels sprouts, but sprouts of any cultivar of Brassica oleracea (e.g. Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, etc) are great for sulforaphane

Enjoy!