What Types of Nutritional Values Do Alfalfa Sprouts Have?

What Types of Nutritional Values Do Alfalfa Sprouts Have?
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While alfalfa sprouts won't supply you with large quantities of any of the major nutrients, they do add fiber and some nutrition without piling on the "bad guys." A full cup of fresh alfalfa sprouts adds only 10 calories to your meal. Sprouts also fall into the "zero percent" daily allowance of such unwanted traits as fat, sodium and--for those on low-carb or low-glycemic diets--carbohydrates and sugar.

Vitamin C

One cup of alfalfa sprouts provides 5 percent of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is one of the antioxidant vitamins. Antioxidants might help protect against aging and a variety of major and minor illnesses, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Vitamin C also helps the body grow and repair tissue and the collagen needed for healthy joints, muscle and skin. To consume an even higher amount of vitamin C, add sprouts to a salad containing fresh spinach, red and green peppers, tomatoes, chopped broccoli and orange or grapefruit sections.

Fiber

A serving of alfalfa sprouts contributes about 3 percent of your daily fiber needs. Fiber helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels while promoting bowel regularity and optimum weight, according to the Mayo Clinic website. For an especially healthy high-fiber meal, use alfalfa sprouts in a sandwich with two slices of multigrain bread, grated fresh carrot, chopped broccoli and a lean protein.

Protein

You'll get about 3 percent of the recommended daily amount of protein by eating 1 cup of alfalfa sprouts. Protein helps build muscle, encourages healthy hair and skin, boosts immunity and encourages healthy development in children. Pair alfalfa sprouts with protein-rich foods like lean red meat, chicken, seafood, nuts and soybeans.

Iron

You can get about 2 percent of your body's daily iron intake with a serving of alfalfa sprouts. Iron helps provide oxygen to your blood cells, preventing the fatigue associated with anemia. Optimum iron intake might enhance athletic importance, help growth rates in children and combat attention deficit disorder, according to UMMC. Pair cooked sprouts with liver, chicken or fish for an extra boost of iron. Alternatively, make an iron-rich meal salad or sandwich containing beans or legumes, sunflower seeds and leafy greens. UMMC also notes that vitamin C helps your body absorb plant-based iron sources. Because alfalfa sprouts contain both iron and vitamin C, they represent a good combination of these nutrients.

Additional Nutrients

Alfalfa sprouts contribute about 1 percent each of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A, potassium and calcium.

References

Article reviewed by Alison Gaynor Last updated on: Sep 28, 2010

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