- Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa) is an annual flowering plant that is originally from Iran, with a lifespan of 5-12 years. It is also called as Lucerne, Purple Medick and Trefoil. It resembles clover with clusters of small purple flowers. Alfalfa today, is cultivated all over the world as a food for cattle but as sprouts, it offers many nutrients to humans.
Alfalfa shoots are pale, fine green spindly and contain plenty of starches, oils and nutrients that help the growth of the plant. These nutrients are converted to vitamins, minerals, enzymes, proteins and sugars, making them an ideal food source. Sprouting beans emit less wind when digested than those which are not sprouted, as the germination process consumes the indigestible sugars in the seed. Alfalfa sprouts can be purchased from the shops, but it is easier to grow them at home in jam jars within 6 days.
Alfalfa sprouts have higher quantities of phytochemicals that offer protection against diseases like pancreatic, colon and leukaemia cancers, osteoporosis, fibrocystic breasts tumours, high cholesterol, arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases and symptoms of PMT and the menopause. For people wanting to quit smoking, alfalfa sprouts are excellent choice, due to their high alkalinity, because alkaline foods have been proved to lower the quantity of nicotine thrown out from urine, thus lowering cravings.
Nutrients
Beta-carotene
Calcium
Magnesium
Phosphorus
Potassium
Benefits
Good for dieters, due to lower calories
Lessens inflammation
Boosts the immunity
Detoxification
Helps sexual activity
Easily digestible proteins
Rich in antioxidants, saponins and phytochemicals
Protects against damage to DNA
Prevents the cumulative effects of aging
Disadvantages
Some people, especially the ones suffering from lupus can develop allergic reaction to alfalfa sprouts. |
