Clover sprouts are quickly becoming a popular addition to many diets. With a look and taste similar to alfalfa sprouts, they are milder in flavor and offer a variety of health benefits. Nutritional powerhouses, clover sprouts are rich in protein, fiber, calcium, iron, vitamin C, and folate, making them an ideal addition to salads, sandwiches, or other meals.
Clover sprouts can be easily and quickly added to your diet with a simple sprouting process, to provide a variety of nutrients and health benefits. Because of their high nutrient density and versatility in the kitchen and as a snack, they are one of the handiest and most effective ways to improve your health.
What Are Clover Sprouts?
There are around 300 species of clover plants, all of which belong to the genus Trifolium, from which clover sprouts are derived. You can get a huge nutritional boost from these seeds once they start to sprout. These sprouts can be purchased at low cost from a variety of grocery and specialized stores worldwide.
Add some clover sprouts to your salad or sandwich. They are low in calories while contributing taste and texture to dishes. You might use them as a condiment, but their nutritional value far exceeds that.
The health benefits of these sprouted seeds are substantial. Clover seeds are easy to cultivate at home. A colander, some paper towels, and some seeds are all you need to get started. To add a zing of flavor to your sandwich or salad, try adding some clover sprouts, which can also be eaten on their own as a protein-packed snack.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Clover Sprouts?
Clover sprouts are a versatile and nutritious food that offers a wide range of health benefits. Some of the most notable 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.
May Have Anticancer Properties
Research has shown that clover sprouts contain a high level of antioxidants like phytochemicals and isoflavones that may help to reduce cancer cell formation and slow the spread of the disease by reducing oxidative stress in the body.
May Help In Detoxifying The Body
Clover sprouts are known to have a positive effect on liver function and blood cleansing. These sprouts have the ability to improve the liver’s ability to detoxify the body and cleanse the blood, reducing the strain on the circulatory and immune systems.
May Help With Weight Loss
Clover sprouts are a great food option for those looking to lose weight. With a low-calorie count and lack of fats or cholesterol, these sprouts can help to curb hunger and prevent overeating. Their high levels of fiber and protein also help to make you feel full.
Rich In Iron And Other Minerals
While clover sprouts aren’t particularly high in any one mineral, they do have trace amounts of calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, and magnesium. The amount of iron in the sprouts in one serving is equivalent to 5 percent of the daily requirement. Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells and to prevent the symptoms of anemia.
It is estimated by the Office of Dietary Supplements that as much as 80% of the global population may be iron deficient. The proteins that transport oxygen across your body can’t be made without iron. Regular consumption of clover sprouts can help to boost circulation and maintain healthy levels of iron in the body.
Good Source Of Protein
There is some evidence that eating clover sprouts can help you achieve your daily protein requirements. Seventy percent of the calories in clover sprouts come from the protein they contain. Every 100 grams of clover sprouts provides 4 grams of protein or 8 percent of the recommended daily allowance.
Clover sprouts are not a complete protein source due to their incomplete amino acid profile. However, if you consume a balanced diet that includes a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains, you should be able to supply your body with all of the amino acids it requires.
How To Sprout Clover Seeds
Growing clover sprouts is a simple and easy process that can be done at home. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to sprout clover seeds:
- Start by rinsing 2 tablespoons of clover seeds to remove any debris or floating matter.
- Place the seeds in a quart jar or other sprouting container and add ¼-½ cup of cool water. Cover the jar with a sprouting screen or mesh sprouting lid and let the seeds soak for 8 hours or overnight. It’s important to create a humid environment to help the seeds germinate faster, but make sure you’re being safe while sprouting.
- Once the seeds have soaked, drain all the water off the seeds. Invert the jar over a bowl at an angle so that the seeds will drain and air can circulate.
- After about 8 hours of draining, rinse and drain the seeds again. Repeat this process 2-3 times daily.
- In about 3 days, tiny sprouts should begin to form. Once sprout tails appear, move the sprout container to an area with indirect light for growing green leaves. Avoid direct sunlight.
- Continue rinsing and draining 2-3 times daily for another 2-3 days, or until the sprouts have grown to around 3 inches.
- Once the sprouts have reached the desired length, drain them well, remove any remaining hulls, and enjoy them immediately or transfer them to a covered container for later.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to grow your own clover sprouts at home and enjoy the benefits that come with them.
