Sprouts come in different forms and clover sprouts may be new to you because of their lesser-known benefits. Their concentrated nutrients and usefulness in cooking and snacking make them one of the easiest and best ways to boost your overall health.
What are Clover Sprouts?
Clover sprouts are germinated seeds of the clover plant, which includes more than 300 varieties within the Trifolium genus. When these seeds begin to sprout, they are packed with certain nutrients that can give you a major boost in various ways. These sprouts are easy to find in many grocery and specialty stores around the world and they are relatively inexpensive. The most popular use of clover sprouts is on your sandwich or salad for a flavorful burst and they can also be eaten on their own as a protein-dense snack! [1]
Clover sprouts Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Clover Sprouts Nutrition Facts
These sprouts are impressively dense when it comes to nutrients because every seed contains the basic nutrients that a plant needs to grow and develop. This includes a diverse range of minerals, including iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium and potassium, as well as notable amount of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B, and vitamin K. The most important part of these sprouts is their high protein content and unique antioxidants, which can have a range of effects on your health. [2]
Health Benefits of Clover Sprouts
The best health benefits of these sprouts include their ability to detoxify the body, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, prevent chronic diseases, and boost circulation, among others.
Detoxify the Body
Research has found that clover sprouts possess the ability to improve liver function and more effectively cleanse the blood, putting less strain on your circulatory and immune systems. [3]
Anticancer Potential.
Dr. Adrian Franke, Laurie J. Custer et. al, published an article in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, which states that the number of antioxidants in clover sprouts like phytochemicals and isoflavones, may reduce cancer cell formation and slow the spread of the disease by reducing oxidative stress in the body. [4]
Weight Loss
Due to the low-calorie count in clover sprouts, as well as the complete lack of fats or cholesterol, these small sprouts are able to help with weight loss in a major way. Their high levels of fiber and protein also help to feel full, thus preventing unnecessary snacking and overeating. [5]
Boost Circulation
A single serving of clover sprouts contains about 5% of your daily iron intake. While this may not sound like a lot, but ensuring that you have moderate servings of iron in every meal is the best way to prevent the symptoms of anemia.
