07/20/2019 / By Zoey Sky
Fresh fruits and vegetables are essential for a balanced diet. But did you know that you can boost your brain health by consuming sprouts and microgreens?
Sprouting refers to the cultivation of sprouts and microgreens that are full of amazing health benefits. While you have the option to buy sprouts or microgreens at health food stores, it’s cheaper to grow them at home.
Sprouting doesn’t just save you money, it also gives you access to various superfoods that possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and detoxifying properties. You can use beans, grains, legumes, or seeds for sprouting.
Start growing the following sprouts at home and boost your overall health. (Related: 12 Ways to detox and improve brain health.)
Broccoli sprouts
Broccoli sprouts have neuroprotective properties and contain higher amounts of sulforaphane (an antioxidant) than mature broccoli. This antioxidant stimulates the expression of cytoprotective genes in the brain and also helps minimize injury to nerve cells.
Broccoli sprouts are the only significant natural sources of sulforaphane.
Lentil sprouts
Lentils are full of thiamine, an essential B vitamin for neurotransmitter balance.
Dried lentils are deficient in cysteine and methionine, two essential amino acids. Luckily, lentil sprouts have increased levels of all amino acids, including cysteine and methionine.
This makes lentil sprouts an essential vegan source of protein.
Mung bean sprouts
Mung bean sprouts have potent anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. Additionally, they contain essential compounds like isoflavones, which have antioxidant properties. Isoflavones help lower cholesterol.
Mung bean sprouts are one of the few foods rich in bioavailable potassium, which helps lower blood pressure and minimize muscle cramps.
Red clover sprouts
Red clover sprouts are perfect for perimenopausal and menopausal women since they are full of phytoestrogens that can help address various common symptoms like bloating and temperature dysregulation.
Phytoestrogens can also relieve anxiety and insomnia, which can both affect your ability to concentrate and focus.
Sprouts are easy to grow. Here’s a step-by-step of how to grow your own sprouts.
Materials:
Steps:
Consume the sprouts immediately or keep them in your fridge for about one week.
Consuming sprouts regularly doesn’t just boost brain health, it also helps reduce oxidative stress and minimize inflammation linked to various diseases.
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