Alfalfa sprouts are delicate, nutty little shoots that add crunch and freshness to meals. They are very low in kilojoules and provide vitamin K, vitamin C, folate and small amounts of plant protein (about 4 grams per 100 grams), plus antioxidant plant compounds.
Wellness
Bone health Alfalfa sprouts are a good source of vitamin K, needed for healthy bones and normal blood clotting. If you take warfarin, keep your vitamin K intake consistent and talk to your doctor.
Heart health Alfalfa contains saponins and fibre, which in early studies may help lower cholesterol.
Immune health Sprouts provide vitamin C, which supports normal immune function.
Menopause Alfalfa contains phytoestrogens (plant compounds that weakly mimic oestrogen). There isn’t good evidence that eating sprouts eases menopause symptoms, but they are a nutritious addition to your plate.
Blood sugar Alfalfa sprouts contain almost no carbohydrate, so they won’t affect blood sugar.
Important food safety note Raw sprouts can carry E. coli and salmonella, because the warm, moist conditions they grow in also suit bacteria. Food Standards Australia New Zealand advises that pregnant women, young children, older people and anyone with a weakened immune system should avoid raw sprouts, or cook them until steaming hot. People with lupus should also avoid alfalfa, as it may trigger flare-ups.
Beauty
From the inside Vitamin C helps your body make collagen, and the antioxidants in fresh sprouts support healthy-looking skin.
Weight management
A cup of alfalfa sprouts has only around 35 kJ (8 calories), so pile them onto sandwiches, wraps and salads for extra crunch and volume without the kilojoules.
Cooking with alfalfa sprouts
Sprouts are great used in wraps, sandwiches, salads, don’t limit it to that and grow your own they are a no-brainer to grow at home (rinse them well twice a day, keep your jar clean, and eat them within a few days)
Top a haloumi and eggplant pizza with pomegranate seeds, drizzle and alfalfa sprouts after its cooked or create your own sexy topping.
The Flowers are edible and can be used to funk up the appearance of salads and other meals.
“So No Excuses Guys come on Spring out of your chair and sprout some Alfalfa today”
This article is general information about food and wellbeing, not medical advice. Please talk to your GP or a qualified health professional about any health condition, medication or major change to your diet.
