Healthy Eating, Exercise Goal of Brussels Sprout Challenge

Healthy Eating, Exercise Goal of Brussels Sprout Challenge

By Leslie Zganjar

A runner eating a Brussels sprout during last year's challenge.
Nearly 600 people participated in last year’s Brussels Sprout Challenge.

Challenging people to eat healthy and exercise is the goal of the sixth annual Brussels Sprout Challenge, hosted by University Medical Center as part of the American Heart Association’s West Alabama Heart Walk scheduled for March 7 in downtown Tuscaloosa.

Partnering again with Manna Grocery and Deli in Tuscaloosa, which prepares and donates the Brussels sprouts served at the walk, UMC uses the challenge to promote healthy lifestyle choices — a healthy diet and exercise — while complementing the American Heart Association’s mission to build healthier lives free of heart disease and stroke.

Last year, nearly 600 people participated in the Brussels Sprout Challenge.

To complete the challenge, participants have to eat one Brussels sprout at each mile of the 3.1-mile walk. Those who complete the challenge by eating all three Brussels sprouts, which are roasted, will receive free prizes at the completion of the walk.

UMC, which is operated by UA’s College of Community Health Sciences, also provides Brussels sprout recipes and information about the health benefits of Brussels sprouts, which include heart health and cancer protection.

The West Alabama Heart Walk begins at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater and continues along the downtown river walk. Activities begin at 8 a.m. and the walk and Brussels Sprout Challenge start at 9 a.m.

The mission of UMC and the College of Community Health Sciences is to improve and promote the health of individuals and communities in the region and state.