Sprouts - healthy and delicious power packs with little effort

Author: Nicoletta Poddey - EatCareHeal

Sprouts, the young Keimlinge of seeds, are real powerhouses and are considered a superfood. They contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants and fibre, which make them a particularly valuable part of a healthy diet. What's more, they are easy to grow yourself at home.

Four health benefits at a glance:

1. rich in nutrients and antioxidants

Sprouts are particularly rich in vitamin C, A, K and various B vitamins. Vitamin C, for example, strengthens the immune system and promotes collagen formation, which in turn supports skin health. Vitamin A is essential for eyesight and cell growth, while vitamin K plays an important role in blood clotting. The B vitamins are crucial for energy metabolism and the function of the nervous system. In addition to these vitamins, sprouts provide the following minerals: magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc, as well as over 60 trace elements - including iron, iodine, selenium, copper and sulphur.

And the little Keimlinge can also score points when it comes to antioxidants. Antioxidants help to neutralise free radicals in the body and thus prevent cell damage. Broccoli sprouts, for example, have high levels of sulforaphane, a particularly strong antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties and is even said to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Alfalfa sprouts are said to be one of the best sources of antioxidants and nutrients, as well as containing blood-healing chlorophyll and all 8 essential amino acids. They therefore provide important building blocks of proteins that help to increase bone density and prevent bone fractures and osteoporosis. They are also a great source of saponins, which have strong anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Regular consumption of sprouts can therefore make an important contribution to protecting cells and preventing chronic diseases.

2. strengthen the immune system and revitalise

Due to their high content of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, sprouts can strengthen the immune system and make the body more resistant to infections. Especially in the upcoming autumn and winter season, when the risk of colds and flu increases, sprouts can provide valuable support for your immune system.

Sprouts should play an important role in the diet, especially for people who have a lot to do and are exhausted from time to time or new mums who get little sleep. As well as strengthening the immune system, they help to restore vitality and energy as they promote the regeneration of the adrenal glands, thyroid and the rest of the endocrine system. Fenugreek sprouts , for example, regulate cortisol production in the adrenal glands and the production of thyroid hormones.

For menopausal women, sprouts (e.g. Alfalfa) can be a good support because they help to restore the balance of hormones such as progesterone, oestrogen and testosterone.

3. support digestion and detoxification

Sprouts are rich in fibre and so-called increased biotics. According to Anthony William, these microorganisms ensure that the good bacteria in our intestines are optimally supported in their work and that the production of the body's own vitamin B12 is promoted. Compared to the vegetables they grow into, sprouts are much easier to digest. The enzymes contained in the sprouts also promote the breakdown of nutrients and thus improve the absorption of nutrients in the intestine. The small Keimlinge can therefore not only prevent constipation, but also a lack of nutrients. Broccoli sprouts with their strong flavour are particularly good for digestion as they increase the level of hydrochloric acid, which is valuable for digestion.

Radish sprouts, on the other hand, like their big sister the radish or their big brother the radish, have strong detoxifying properties. They can help to remove heavy metals and other toxins from the liver and other organs.

4. keep you mentally fit and slim

You could also call sprouts brain food, as they supply the brain with amino acids and enzymes and provide important mineral salts that are necessary for the formation of neurotransmitters. They also strengthen and rejuvenate brain cells, which has a positive effect on our cognitive abilities. Incidentally, the detoxification power already mentioned also applies to the brain: here, too, they help to remove heavy metals from the tissue, which counteracts memory loss and brain fog and is even said to help minimise symptoms of Alzheimer's and dementia.

As already mentioned, sprouts provide essential vitamins and minerals and are fairly low in calories and very filling. This makes them an ideal food for people who want to lose or maintain their weight.

How you can use sprouts

Add the sprouts as a topping to a fresh salad or add them to your smoothie. Sprouts also taste delicious in raw soups. According to Anthony William, they are most effective when juiced. This is why they are also used in various of its brain elixirs (small juices to support or detoxify the brain).

Growing sprouts yourself - it's that easy

Choose a suitable seed, e.g. lentils, sunflowers, radishes, broccoli, alfalfa (incidentally my personal favourite sprouts and the smallest power packs). Please pay attention to the germination capacity. There are seeds specially designed for growing sprouts.

Rinse the seeds thoroughly and soak them in water for between 4 and 12 hours, depending on the type of seed. This helps to start germination and prepare the seeds for growth.

Then drain the soaked seeds and place them in a germination jar or tray. Make sure that the seeds are not lying in water. This can lead to mould growth. Rinse the seeds twice a day with fresh water and leave them to germinate in a cool, light-protected place. Depending on the type of seed, the sprouts will be ready to harvest after 3-7 days.

As soon as the sprouts have reached the desired size, they can be used.

Experiment with different sprouts and find out which little powerhouses will become your favourites. I wish you lots of fun and good germination!

Nicoletta Poddey - EatCareHeal

medically certified counsellor for naturopathy

Website: https://www.eatcareheal.de

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Copyright: Nicoletta Poddey, EatCareheal