Alfalfa Sprouts: 7 Benefits & Uses

Alfalfa sprouts derive from a germinated alfalfa seed. When the seed germinates, a shoot is created, which is then harvested before the plant fully matures. The process of sprouting brings out enzymes that give alfalfa sprouts their many health benefits. The sprouts contain protein, vitamins and minerals and are often found in soups, salads and sandwiches. Alfalfa sprouts benefits include lower cholesterol levels, stronger bones and even a reduced risk of breast cancer.

Alfalfa Sprouts Benefits

1. Minimize Menopause Symptoms

Alfalfa sprouts benefits include minimizing symptoms related to both menopause and menstruation. The high levels of Vitamin K and phytoestrogens the sprouts contain can help stop excessive bleeding, regulate menstruation and help minimize PMS symptoms. (1)

2. Reduce Breast Cancer Risk

The pytoestrogens alfalfa sprouts contain are plant compounds that mimic human estrogen. Thanks to these compounds, alfalfa sprouts benefits include the ability to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Studies have shown that consuming phytoestrogens are linked to postive outcomes in curbing breast cancer and reducing recurrence in breast cancer patients. (2)

3. Prevent Osteoporosis

Alfalfa sprouts benefits include promoting strong and healthy bones. Alfalfa sprouts contain Vitamin K, which the body needs to utilize calcium and build strong bones. They also contain manganese, which plays an important role in preventing osteoporosis and inflammation.

4. Treat Diabetes

Studies have shown that alfalfa sprouts are a natural anti-diabetic food. Alfalfa sprouts benefits include the ability to lower blood glucose levels and naturally treat diabetes. By regulating blood sugar levels, they can help decrease the body' dependency on insulin. (3)

5. Increase Antioxidant Intake

Alfalfa sprouts contain many antioxidants. They work to help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Alfalfa sprouts benefits include a healthier immune system for better protection against diseases and illnesses. Research has shown that alfalfa sprouts benefits also include protection against diseases linked to aging, such as osteoporosis, artery hardening and cancer.

6. Combat High Cholesterol Levels

As a natural antihyperlipidemic, alfalfa sprouts benefits include combating high cholesterol levels to help prevent disease. Alfalfa sprouts are able to lower lipid count to reduce symptoms of coronary heart disease caused by high cholesterol levels. One study found alfalfa to be one of the best cholesterol-lowering foods on the planet. (4)

7. Increase Vitamin C Intake

Alfalfa sprouts benefits include an increase in Vitamin C intake. As one of the top Vitamin C foods, alfalfa sprouts offer 14% of the recommended daily dose of Vitamin C. As a water-soluble vitamin, Vitamin C needs to be replenished through your diet. Adding alfalfa sprouts to soups, sandwiches, salads or other foods can help supplement our Vitamin C needs. Vitamin C plays an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system, protecting the body against illness and infection, and maintaining many proper bodily functions.