Are you a sprout lover and eat it very often? Then this article is for you. Grain sprouting is an ancient event which may have developed unexpectedly when harvested grains were left in the field while hold back for threshing. Sprouting is the controlled process of allowing germination of grains. In the process amylases,proteases and other enzymes are mobilized, modifying the grain components and structure. Sprouts are excellent source to improve the functioning of the body, promote digestion, support bone growth and prevent blood clotting.
Sprouts are absolute nutritional powerhouse and less in calories. It is a highest source of proteins taken amongst the vegetarians. It is believed that sprouts are healthy food as they provide fiber,vitamins,minerals and bioactive compounds(antioxidants) into the diet.
Is it good to take sprouts often?
Ayurveda recommend not using sprouts on a daily basis. Sprouts can be taken once or twice a week moderately. It is good to avoid eating them raw and use them after cooking. As they are richer in nutrition compared to normal grains and seeds, the digestion power should be strong to digest, take in and combine nutrients. It is suggested to cook the sprouts with spices such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper for easier digestion.
Some points on taking sprouts
-Use it after cooking
During the germination process, chemical changes happen to the components and many are not fully processed and immature. Hence they are not fully digested which causes abdomen heaviness, cramps and constipation. Thus it is advised to take sprouts after steaming or cooking that helps for better digestion.
-Not to combine with other proteins
Don’t mix sprouts with other protein foods as the duration of digestion for both varies that leads to poor digestion.
-Don’t use it if you have a weak digestion
Children,old aged,pregnant women and people with weak digestion better to avoid it as there is increased chance of bloating,indigestion and abdominal pain.
Take Away
Sprouts are the premature growth of a plant from a germinated seed. Sprouts were first cultivated in ancient India and Southeast Asia. It is good to take sprouts once or twice a week moderately. Take sprouts after cooking as it helps better digestion.