Can Bearded Dragons Eat Brussel Sprouts? Are They Toxic?

Brussels sprouts have had some bad publicity over time thanks to their bitter taste, but they are quite nutritious, and even more nutrient-dense than cabbages. However, vegetables that are healthy for humans don’t always provide the same benefits for bearded dragons as we have different nutritional needs. This is why you must review what you feed your pet to ensure its health and safety under your care. That being said, are brussels sprouts suitable for bearded dragons?

Bearded dragons can eat brussels sprouts, but only occasionally. This is because they contain goitrogens, which can be toxic in large amounts. While they can be a tasty treat, it’s crucial to provide them moderately to ensure your pet’s safety.

This discussion will enlighten you on the dangers and benefits of feeding brussels sprouts to your pet, including how to serve them safely. Let’s dive!

The Risks of Feeding Brussels Sprouts to Bearded Dragons

Brussels sprouts cannot satisfy your bearded dragon’s nutritional needs and can even harm them if consumed in excess. Here are the reasons why:

The Dangers of Metabolic Bone Disease

Brussels sprouts have a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 1:2, which can hinder your beardie’s calcium absorption. This is because phosphorus easily binds to calcium reducing its availability. Furthermore, insufficient calcium can lead to your beardie developing metabolic bone disease, an ailment that affects bone density and causes severe deformities. To prevent MBD caused by calcium deficiency, always include calcium supplements (view on Amazon) in your dragon’s daily meals to maintain a consistent supply.

Brussels Sprouts Are High in Goitrogens

Brussels sprouts are rich in goitrogens; a substance that disrupts thyroid hormone production leading to inflammation and hypothyroidism. If fed excessively, your bearded dragon can suffer from growth deformities that can turn fatal without care.

Benefits of Brussels Sprouts to Bearded Dragons

Despite the health risks brussels sprouts pose for bearded dragons, they contain several vitamins and minerals that can improve and maintain a healthy internal biological network.

Brussels Sprouts Are Fairly Nutritious

Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and minerals that can promote your pet’s well-being. Although they may be insignificant in your pet’s diet in the amount they can eat, they can be a healthy occasional treat if given correctly. Brussels sprouts are particularly rich in potassium which assists nerve regulation, protection, and function, and vitamin C which boosts the immune system.

Vitamins are also the major providers of antioxidants that protect your dragon from oxidative stress and irregular cell growth which can lead to tumors and cancers.

The tables below demonstrate the nutrients present in brussels sprouts.

Brussels Sprouts Can Reduce Inflammation

In addition to the function of antioxidants, brussels sprouts can help regulate both internal and external inflammation. In situations where your bearded dragon is suffering from an infection or irregular blood pressure, the alpha-lipoic acid present in the vegetable can aid in treatment and recovery.

Brussels Sprouts Can Assist Bowel Movement

Is your beardie constipated? Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber that actively loosens up stool and facilitates excretion. It helps to maintain a proper gut load that can help inhibit clogging and indigestion.

Brussels Sprouts Can Increase Good Gut Bacteria

The high fiber in brussels sprouts is a good source of energy for your bearded dragon’s gut bacteria. They aid digestion and nutrient absorption, which is one of the precursors for a healthier life. The more fiber your beardie eats, the more good bacteria thrive in its gut.

How to Feed Your Beardie Brussels Sprouts

The safest way to feed your bearded dragon brussels sprouts is in small proportions —no more than two bulbs per month. Be sure to wash the vegetables thoroughly to remove any fertilizers or herbicides on the surface. After washing, chop the sprouts into smaller, bite-sized pieces for its consumption. Your pet can enjoy the vegetables either in a salad or by itself—both options are perfectly fine.

Are There Safer Plant-Based Treats for My Bearded Dragon?

There are many treats that your bearded dragon can enjoy. If your beardie is a picky eater, try creating salads with a variety of safe vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, yams, and green beans. However, ensure these treats do not replace your pet’s daily staple vegetables as this can lead to malnutrition.

In addition to occasional vegetable treats, bearded dragons can also eat some fruits like strawberries, peaches, prickly pears, and blackberries in moderation.

What Should Bearded Dragons Eat to Remain Healthy?

Bearded dragons require a specific diet to grow strong and healthy; one that meets their daily nutritional needs. Their diet consists of carefully selected insects and vegetables specifically suited for their nutritional needs.

In addition, a beardie’s diet varies with age. At different stages of growth, it may require more animal protein than plant matter, and vice versa. The table below clearly illustrates this phenomenon.

Parting Words

Brussels sprouts can be a tasty treat for your bearded dragon if it enjoys them. Just remember to offer them in moderation. If your pet is recovering from an illness, it’s best to limit treats until it is fully rejuvenated. This will help you monitor your beardie’s nutrient intake during recovery. Good luck!