Sprouts: The Ultimate Superfood

Sprouts, known to be extremely rich in nutrients and a powerhouse of protein, is widely consumed for breakfast and even as snacks. They are a rich source of fiber, calcium, vitamins A and C, potassium, and phosphorous.

As sprouts are highly rich in nutrients, it becomes difficult for our bodies to break them down. So, does this make sprouts unhealthy or unsuitable for some people? Let’s find out.

It is rich in nutrients, but as the body has a tough time breaking it down, it often leads to bloating, acidity, constipation, and hemorrhoids (piles), in the long run. As per modern science, sprouts are rich in protein, fats, fiber, and vitamins, but in Ayurveda, sprouts are known to increase Vata because when you assess sprouts they are halfway between being a seed and baby plant.

Halfway through transformation is tough to digest just like half-formed curd. It leads to bloating and the formation of toxins leading to inflammation or pro-inflammatory molecules, which is why most of us feel bloated, gassy, acidic, and constipated.

Despite being abundant in fiber, vitamin C, proteins, and calcium, the body might not be able to absorb all the nutrients of the seeds and beans in the raw form so, slightly cooking the sprouts makes the nutrients more accessible to the body.

A few ways to make them more digestible and safer to consume, according to the expert are:

1. Steam over a water bath and add to a salad.
2. Blend and add to your dosa batter or pancake mix.
3. Add sprouts to your khichdi – pressure cooking will soften and cook them, decreasing pressure on your system