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Supercharge your health with broccoli sprouts
Adapted from an article in the College of Naturapathic Medicine Magazine
Broccoli sprouts are the tender shoots of broccoli seeds that emerge within 3 – 5 days of germination. These tiny greens pack a nutritional punch and are considered a superfood due to their dense concentration of nutrients, phytochemicals and bioactive compounds that offer numerous health benefits.
They resemble alfalfa sprouts in appearance but have a distinct peppery flavour. Their nutritional potency comes from high levels of glucoraphanin, a precursor to sulforaphane, a powerful antioxidant and detoxifier.
Here’s why broccoli sprouts are a must-eat superfood to include in your diet.
How broccoli sprouts boost health
Rich source of sulforaphane
One of the primary health benefits of broccoli sprouts is their exceptional content of sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is a potent antioxidant and phytochemical known for its ability to support detoxification processes in the body. It activates enzymes that help eliminate harmful toxins and carcinogens, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer.
Antioxidant powerhouse
Broccoli sprouts are rich in antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, which help neutralise free radicals that can damage cells and lead to oxidative stress. Regular consumption of antioxidants supports overall cellular health and reduces your risk of chronic diseases and ageing-related conditions.
Anti-inflammatory properties
The sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to various diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and autoimmune conditions. Including anti-inflammatory foods like broccoli sprouts in your diet can help manage inflammation and support overall wellness.
Cardiovascular health
The compounds in broccoli sprouts, especially sulforaphane, have been shown to support cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure, improving blood vessel function, promoting healthy cholesterol levels and reducing oxidative stress.
Digestive support
Broccoli sprouts contain fibre and enzymes that support digestive health. Fibre aids in regular bowel movements and promotes gut health by acting as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. The enzymes in broccoli sprouts can also aid in the digestion of fats and proteins, enhancing overall nutrient absorption.
How to use broccoli sprouts
Add to salads, sandwiches and soups. Their crunchy texture and peppery flavour complement fresh vegetables and dressings, enhancing both taste and nutrition.
Blend into smoothies, juices or shots. Broccoli sprouts can be incorporated into smoothies and juices along with other vegetables for a concentrated dose of nutrients. You can also blend them into a wellness shot with lemon juice and ginger.
Use as garnish on avocado toast, omelettes or baked dishes like casseroles. This not only adds visual appeal but also introduces a burst of flavour and nutrition to your meal.
Tiny sprouts with huge health benefits
Broccoli sprouts are more than just a trendy addition to salads; they are a nutritional powerhouse packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and digestive enzymes. Regular consumption of broccoli sprouts can help improve detoxification capacity, reduce inflammation, enhance cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Whether blended into smoothies, tossed into salads or used as a garnish, incorporating broccoli sprouts into your daily diet is a delicious way to support your health from the inside out.
To learn more about nutrition and foods to boost health, take a look at CNM’s Nutrition for Everyday Living Short course which is available online and in-class.
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