Sprouts are germinated seeds which can be eaten raw or cooked. They have high nutritional value and have many health and environmental benefits. Various factors create free radicals in our bodies daily. Raw food contains oxygen which neutralizes these free radicals.
Seeds that are suitable for sprouting
There are so many types of seeds available which can be sprouted and are it for eating. The most common food sprouts are:-
Pulses
These are from legume family and all types of whole lentils, peas, mung beans, and soybeans comes under this.
Cereals
Wheat, oats, rice ( husk should be removed before sprouting), barley, amaranth, buckwheat.
Oilseeds
Sesame, almond, peanut, sunflower, linseed.
Brassica
This is the cabbage family and the sporuts beonging to this are:- broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage etc.
Reasons to eat Sprouts
- Sprouts are high in protein and can contain up to 35% of protein. It is a good alternative to meat and other non vegan products which are rich in protein but also have fat and cholesterol combined.
- Sprouts are good source of Vitamin A which is responsible to stimulate hair follicles to promote hair growth.
- Sprouts contain Vitamin C which produces collagen and maintain skin elasticity. Collagen is the main structural protein of the various connective tissues. This holds the tissues together and reduces wrinkles and signs of aging.
- Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6 and are responsible for converting food into energy. Our brain depends on Vitamin B1 to metabolize glucose and proper functioning of nerves. Whereas Vitamin B6 produces red blood cells and white blood cells that support our immune system.
- Vitamin K in sprouts maintains strong hair roots and strands .
- Sprouts are rich in minerals such as Iron, Potassium, Phosphorous, Calcium and Magnesium.
- Sprouts have dietary fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Sprouts have high content of Enzymes which can keep our bodies healthy.
- They are easy to digest and are good option for weight loss as they are high in fiber and low in calories.
- Sprouts contain abundance of highly active antioxidants that neutralizes free radicals and minimizes effects of aging.
- Sprouting at home
- Sprouts can be easily prepared at home with minimal effort. You can use sprout maker available in market or a simple bowl or a jar . First let the seeds soak in water for 10 hrs so that they are ready to germinate. Keep the jar at a warm place of your kitchen for 3-4 days ad change its water every day.
- Enjoy it as raw salad or you can stem and cook with onions, tomato and capsicum for better taste. Eating sprouts raw will get you maximum benefits as they are healthier when not cooked.
