Which Is Better For You Broccoli Or Sprouts?

Which Is Better For You Broccoli Or Sprouts?

Broccoli sprouts vs. broccoli. Are broccoli or broccoli sprouts healthier? 

Which is better for you broccoli or broccoli sprouts? This question is very common to ask. We have a wide array of green veggies. Are they all the same? Why does one taste better than the other? Why do they have the same name but different nutritional values? 

Going on a veggie diet is not easy. Especially when your options are limited, but food names are so similar. Luckily, I am a Nutritional Therapist ready to answer all the questions you have- one green veggie at a time. Say goodbye to confusion today!

You might wonder why it’s important to know broccoli sprouts vs broccoli. Education is key. When eating healthy, you need not only to know what you’re eating but also why you’re eating it. Knowing the differences, the similarities, the unique health benefits and so much more will help you immensely when you begin to prepare your plant-based meals. 

What is broccoli? 

Let’s start off by creating a distinct difference between the two. What is broccoli? Broccoli is a small tree of the vegetable food group. The veggie is known to originate in France. It is made of clustered flowering heads with a faded green stalk. The leaves that it grows around are also edible. 

Broccoli is a member of the cabbage family. It has a mixture of bitter and sweet flavours when eaten raw. When eaten raw, it is crunchy and becomes extremely tender the longer it is boiled. Broccoli is a powerhouse filled with various fibers, minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins. You get three varieties of broccoli called purple cauliflower, sprouting broccoli, and calabrese broccoli. 

What are broccoli sprouts?

If you were thinking that broccoli sprouts are just baby broccolis, then you were correct! Broccoli sprouts are simply broccoli plants that are a maximum of 5 days old. They are germinated seeds loaded with potential nutritional health benefits. 

They have a unique look. White stems that are inches long, you see the seed attached to them. They have tiny green leaves. The flavour is up to interpretation. They can be greeny to some, and flavourless to others. Just like broccoli, sprouts are eaten raw with their crunchy texture. Or they can be cooked to a tender sauce. 

Here are some yummy plant-based recipes that you can add either broccoli or broccoli sprouts to: https://www.healthconcepts.ie/freebies/ 

How do broccoli and broccoli sprouts differ? Are broccoli and broccoli sprouts the same?

Broccoli and broccoli sprouts have a big distinction in these categories:

  • Nutritional content.
  • Absorption ability. 
  • Age. 
  • Taste and texture. 
  • Appearance.

Broccoli sprouts are the first growth stage of broccoli plants. Not many plants can be eaten in their first growth stage. However, these two are very different in nutritional content. A similar serving of both provides the same carb, fat, and protein content. Given that they are cooked. 

It’s important to note, however, that sprouts have a lot more inactive compound content than broccoli. 

They contain different nutrients 

Broccoli sprouts nutrition facts. Broccoli nutrition facts.

Each one of these veggies is a nutrient powerhouse. Broccoli sprouts are an amazing source of vitamin K. Much more than broccoli. Sprouts also contain sulforaphane. This is great for fighting cancer and diabetic growth. 

Broccoli on the other hand is packed with multi nutrients. These include Vitamins C, and A, Calcium, and selenium. Broccoli has multiple benefits and will always be great to add to your diet. You can have them raw or cooked. 

Differences in absorption 

Broccoli sprouts have a higher absorption of sulforaphane than broccoli. If you pair broccoli power and sprouts, then absorption is increased to a max. This is a very great quality for a vegetable to possess. The ability to absorb sulforaphane helps with cancer overgrowth and progression. It suppresses the growth of tumors in our bodies. 

Differences in age 

As I mentioned before, broccoli and broccoli sprouts come from the same seed. The difference is the time they were taken from their plant. Broccoli sprouts are germinated seeds that still have the seed attached to the stem This makes them baby broccolis. Broccoli is the fully grown version of the plant in its final stage. 

Taste different 

Both broccoli and broccoli sprouts can be eaten either raw or cooked. They have distinctly different tastes. You can taste the earthy aromas from these veggies. They come in bitter-sweet variants. The way they are cooked really determines how the taste comes across. Whether they are boiled, steamed, fried, or eaten raw also plays a role in how it tastes. 

Appearance

When you first see broccoli sprouts, you will have no idea that it is associated with the shrub-like structure of broccoli. Broccoli sprouts have long white stems. They are still attached to their seeds. They have small green leaves attached to them. Their body has an ombre effect- starting from dark green and easing into a sharp white with a gradient. 

Broccoli maintains this same gradient. The lower part of the stem is white and the top part of the shrub is very green. It is much thicker, wider, and smaller than broccoli sprouts. It is shaped like a small shrub. Broccoli can easily be cut up into small pieces for people that do not enjoy the overwhelming earthy taste of whole thick broccoli. 

Health benefits of broccoli. Broccoli 101: nutrition facts and health benefits. 30 Health benefits of broccoli, according to a Nutritional Therapist. The 30 most important health benefits of broccoli

What are the main health benefits of broccoli? What are the 30 benefits of broccoli?

Here are the top benefits of broccoli:

  1. Low in calories.
  2. Enhances brain health. 
  3. Acts as a detoxifying agent. 
  4. Protects heart health. 
  5. High water content. 
  6. Promotes gut health. 
  7. The fiber content aids in weight loss. 
  8. Aid in growth and maintenance. 
  9. High in protein. 
  10. Rich in vitamin C. 
  11. Helps with immune function. 
  12. Promotes skin health
  13. It’s an antioxidant.
  14. Promotes liver health. 
  15. Stimulates digestive health.
  16. Vitamin K1 content reduces blood clotting. 
  17. Contains folate which is good for cell function and tissue growth. 
  18. The potassium content is good for blood pressure control. 
  19. Prevents heart disease. 
  20. Contains manganese. 
  21. Helps transport oxygen in red blood cells. 
  22. It’s a rich antioxidant. 
  23. Has sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol which can protect against cancer growth. 
  24. Strengthens eye health. 
  25. Protection against inflammation. 
  26. Contains beneficial quercetin. 
  27. Reduces oxidative stress. 
  28. Lowers cholesterol levels.
  29. Protection against cell death. 
  30. Reduce constipation. 

Broccoli is a nutrient-rich food packed with minerals and vitamins. These include vitamins C and K, fiber, potassium, and iron. It is known as one of the most protein-rich green veggies. Broccoli is often rejected by children based on its hard crunchy structure. But they can easily be changed up simply by boiling them and adding your favourite spices.

Broccoli is very low in calories, which is great because you can fill up on them without worrying too much about calories. They are also very hydrating. With a 90% water count, broccoli is both filling and a water source. 

This shrub-like veggie will help your body fight off diseases. It might be small, but it’s very powerful. It helps with joint health and improves the strength of your bones. It is a great supplement for people trying to reduce the risks of cancer growth, cardiovascular disease, and other illnesses. 

Health benefits of broccoli sprouts. Are broccoli sprouts healthy? 

21 Benefits of eating broccoli sprouts vs broccoli. 21 Health benefits of broccoli sprouts

  1. It lowers blood pressure.
  2. Rich in nutrients. 
  3. Promotes gut health. 
  4. Simulates joint health. 
  5. Promotes a healthy heart. 
  6. Protects your cells from damage. 
  7. Boosts immune system. 
  8. Fights off inflammation. 
  9. Rich in antioxidants. 
  10. Filled with iron. 
  11. Supplies oxygen to the brain and promotes brain health. 
  12. Improves digestive health. 
  13. Fight off cancer with sulforaphane.  
  14. Regulates blood sugar levels. 
  15. Protects skin from UV burns. 
  16. High in Vitamin C. 
  17. Slows down skin aging. 
  18. Strengthens hair. 
  19. Helps the liver.
  20. Strengthens lungs with sulforaphane.
  21. Treats stomach ulcers.

I bet you’re reading this and you had no idea broccoli sprouts were packed with this many nutrients. Sprouts are nutrient-dense and extremely beneficial for your health. Keep reading to see an in-depth explanation of each benefit.

It lowers blood pressure. | What greens are good for high blood pressure?

If you suffer from low blood pressure, I would highly recommend adding sprouts to your diet. Sprouts are known to lower blood pressure. It is also advised though, to live a healthy lifestyle, exercise moderately and often, eat nutritional meals, manage stress, and seek professional help. Unmanaged blood pressure is very bad for your health and it can cause many dysfunctionalities. 

Rich in nutrients. | The advantages of broccoli sprouts. Broccoli sprouts nutrition, health benefits, and more.

As a Nutritional Therapist, I absolutely have to dedicate an entire blog to these earthy veggies because they are extremely rich in nutrients. They have a high protein and fiber content. They are also popular for being rich in sulforaphane- a cancer-fighting agent. 

This veggie is a vitamin and mineral powerhouse! It is saturated with calcium, Vitamins C and A, and iron. These are all great for stimulating your overall health and well-being.

Promotes gut health. | Are sprouts good for gut health?

As a gut health expert, my goal is to find you the most natural and easy solutions to heal your gut. If you have been suffering from gut health issues then maybe it’s time to see what broccoli sprouts can do for your gut. Remember- a happy gut leads to a happy life.

The reason that broccoli promotes gut health is that it has antibacterial and antioxidant qualities. When your body experiences chronic oxidative stress, it can lead to an unhealthy gut. The sulforaphane in sprouts improves intestinal cell functioning and overall gut health.

Simulates joint health. | Is broccoli good for your joints?

Broccoli sprouts are amazing for your joints. Surprisingly enough, this little plant isn’t as bland as it may seem. It is filled with nutritional value that can directly stimulate your joint health. It is advised that developing children and the elderly increase broccoli in their diet. It’s also good for young adults to build their joint strength before reaching old age.

Promotes a healthy heart. | Is sulforaphane good for your heart?

Broccoli is not just an aid for your gut and your joints. It’s also essential to keeping a healthy heart. I would suggest starting off a diet including broccoli sprouts from a young age. They pose many health benefits and are extremely good for your well-being. Sprouts are good at lowering triglyceride and blood pressure levels in our bodies. This helps to reduce heart complications. 

Protects your cells from damage. | What does broccoli do for your cells?

Broccoli sprouts are amazing when it comes to guarding your cells. This is due to their high content of glucoraphanin. It is great at fighting off inflammation. It aids as a protection against a variety of diseases and illnesses. Remember to prepare your sprouts in a healthy manner to extract all the health benefits.

Want to know more about the glucoraphanin content in broccoli? Read here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/glucoraphanin 

Boosts immune system. | The powerful immune properties of broccoli sprouts

If you’re looking for a natural immune booster– you don’t always need to opt for citrus fruit. Lemons and oranges are our go-to fruit when it comes to curbing any immune-weakening symptoms. However, your immune system can get just the right amount of support from regularly incorporating this super-veggie into your diet.

Fights off inflammation. | Are broccoli sprouts anti-inflammatory? Is broccoli anti-inflammatory?

Broccoli sprouts are anti-inflammatory, which is why they are great for numerous amounts of illnesses and diseases. If you are experiencing frequent discomfort, then you should consider eating more of this superfood. 

They are beneficial to your body. They act by fighting inflammation that spreads to numerous regions. It aids in boosting your immune system and overall health. Sprouts assist in nurturing cell damage in the body. Leaving you to feel happier and healthier. 

Rich in antioxidants. | Are broccoli sprouts high in antioxidants?

If you’re looking for a natural antioxidant, broccoli sprouts are the one for you! What’s an antioxidant? It is a substance that can prevent cellular disease. You can find them in healthy foods such as broccoli sprouts. They fight off free radicals, prevent oxidative stress, and promote health in all major systems of the body.

Filled with iron. | Do broccoli sprouts contain iron? Which sprouts have the most iron?

The sprout with a lot of iron in it is certainly broccoli sprouts. If you feel light-headed, fatigued, and dizzy often or after moderate physical activity- you might have a lack of iron. Sprouts are filled with iron. Do you think you might lack iron in your body? It can’t hurt to make sure. Have a look at the signs and symptoms that you might have iron deficiency. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/iron-deficiency-anemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355034. Remember to check with a professional. 

Supplies oxygen to the brain and promotes brain health. | What does sulforaphane do for the brain?

A hidden feature of broccoli sprouts is that it is a powerful booster for your brain. That’s right, having a dose of these stemmed greens can stimulate your brain health and improve your overall cognitive functioning. Stay smart, sharp, and boosted with broccoli sprouts. 

How might this happen? Well, it’s all in the nutrient content of sprouts. They contain sulforaphane, iron, and antioxidants. These are all good supplements to prevent mental illnesses. This is due to the supply of oxygen to the bloodstream to promote healthy brain functioning. 

Improves digestive health. | Are broccoli sprouts easy to digest?

Do you feel bloated, constipated, ill, gassy, or suffering from diarrhea? Welcome to the club! People all around the world suffer from these symptoms. Especially people with bad dietary choices. What you put into your body is what you get out. 

If you want to curb these symptoms, grab a cup of broccoli sprouts. They aid in chasing off bad bacteria that will harm your gut. Sprouts are your colon’s best friend. Have it in moderation and in good portions with other greens to really experience all the benefits.

Fight off cancer with sulforaphane | Is sprouts good for cancer patients? What sprouts fight cancer?

Sprouts are helpful in fighting off cancer growth. Whether it’s colon, bladder, breast, throat, or skin cancer. The sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts kills the cancer growth cells and serves as protection for healthy cells. In this heavily processed, cancer-stimulating new food society, broccoli sprouts are a great vegetable to keep in your diet. 

Protects skin from UV burns | Can broccoli protect us from UV rays? Repair your sun-damaged skin with broccoli sprouts

A good veggie to add to both your summer and winter diets is broccoli sprouts. It is beneficial on hot summer days when you are exposed to harsh UV rays constantly. Sprouts help to protect your skin from sun damage. It’s also good to eat it during winter. Although you won’t be exposed to sunlight, you will be building strength through your skin to tolerate these rays better. It’s key to find good sunblock and to eat well plus wear protective clothing when exposed to the sun. Here are all the qualities you need to look for in a good sunscreen: https://news.christianacare.org/2013/06/choose-the-right-sunscreen/ 

High in Vitamin C | Is raw broccoli rich in vitamin C?

Raw broccoli sprouts contain vitamin C. Here are some benefits of vitamin C:

  • Strengthen the immune system.
  • Lower blood pressure. 
  • Protects cells from free radicals.
  • Lowers risk of heart disease. 
  • Reduces iron deficiency. 
  • Boosts memory. 
  • Reduces levels of blood uric acid.

Your body doesn’t produce vitamin C. This is why you should supplement it by consuming it. You will see great results when you begin to eat food rich in vitamin C. Broccoli sprouts are a great place to start to increase your vitamin C intake. 

Slows down skin aging | The skin benefits of broccoli sprouts! Does broccoli make your skin glow? Are broccoli sprouts anti-aging? Broccoli sprouts benefits for skin. 

You don’t need thousands of dollars worth of skin care products. You don’t have to fill up your pores with heavily processed chemicals that could do more harm than good. There are many natural remedies to curb skin concerns. One of them is to look at what you consume.

Your gut is your body’s powerhouse. If your gut is ill, your body is ill. The best way to have a healthy gut is to eat gut-beneficial food. These foods include broccoli sprouts. The vitamin C content is wonderful for reducing wrinkles, slowing down skin aging, and helping with spots. It also strengthens the elasticity of your skin.  

Strengthens hair | Are broccoli sprouts good for your hair? Which sprouts are best for hair growth?

Healthy hair is beautiful to have! Broccoli sprout makes this easy to achieve. Sprouts are great at strengthening your hair follicles. They give your roots the boost and strength it needs to be healthy. 

Your body will benefit from healthy food on all levels- not just your immune system. When you start eating healthy you’ll feel a complete holistic change. From hair to toes!

Helps the liver | Are broccoli sprouts good for your liver?

Broccoli sprouts are good for your liver. This is because it is a cruciferous vegetable. This is a type of veggie group that helps with detoxification. This is beneficial for the growth of enzymes in the liver that improves its blood levels and protects it from harm. If you’re looking for more healthy food to boost your liver health then check out this 7 foods that cleanse the liver: https://www.newconatural.ca/blogs/blog-featured/7-foods-that-cleanse-your-liver 

Strengthens lungs with sulforaphane |  What food supplement is good for the lungs?

If you want healthy lungs, you’ll need to make important changes to your life. Adding broccoli sprouts to your diet is a good start. They contain sulforaphane which has many health benefits. These include the ability to aid in lung diseases like asthma and respiratory problems. 

Remember, however, that one singular vegetable won’t cure your lung issues. You need to live a well-rounded and balanced life. To improve lung health you need to exercise, manage stress, eat well, and treat chronic illnesses.

Treats stomach ulcers | Is sprouts good for stomach ulcer? Broccoli sprouts may cut stomach ulcer risk 

Did you know that broccoli sprouts can fight off stomach ulcers? Stomach ulcers are caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or H. pylori bacteria. This prevents the stomach from producing acid that digests food. It damages the lining of the stomach. 

This bacteria is fought off by broccoli sprouts. Broccoli contains natural sulforaphane which is organic and safer compared to medicinal antibiotics. Broccoli sprouts will curb the inflammation caused by these bad bacterial growths. Learn more about stomach ulcer causes, symptoms, and, treatments: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-ulcer/ 

Everything you need to know about broccoli, sprouts, and sulforaphane. Sulforaphane 101: broccoli do’s and don’t 

At this point of the article, you have read the word “sulforaphane” about 10 times. Broccoli and broccoli sprouts have a high content of it. What is it really? Why do you need it? What does it do for your body? Below we will dive into the do’s and don’ts of sulforaphane, and the best way to absorb it.

What is sulforaphane? What is sulforaphane — and why is it so good for you?

 As mentioned before, broccoli and sprouts contain high levels of sulforaphane. It is a nutrient that can be found in plants. It fights and repairs any damage that happens in your cells, making it an antioxidant. It is a phytochemical that you can find in numerous cruciferous vegetables. 

Sulforaphane is good at fighting inflammatory infections. It helps to reduce the damage done to the liver and improves the overall function of your liver. It creates glutathione which is a powerful antioxidant in detoxifying your body naturally. It is also antimicrobial and anticancer growth. 

What vegetable has the most sulforaphane? What foods have sulforaphane in them?

All cruciferous vegetables have sulforaphane in them. These include vegetables such as kale and cauliflower. Broccoli and broccoli sprouts have the highest sulforaphane content. This makes them great for any diet. I just love eating broccoli with just about any meal. 

Can you eat too much sulforaphane?

Be careful not to eat too much sulforaphane. Yes, it is healthy. It fights off various forms of cancer. However, your body is made up of organ systems. Each system needs a balance of a variety of nutrients and vitamins. Health comes from balance, not overindulgence.

Does heating broccoli sprouts increase sulforaphane? Does cooking broccoli sprouts destroy sulforaphane?

How do you cook broccoli without destroying sulforaphane? 

As you know, there are many ways to cook broccoli and sprouts. Some prefer to fry it, boil it, steam it or sauté it. Others prefer to eat it raw. If you are wondering which cooking method improves the sulforaphane then you should know that research suggests cooking it up to 70 degrees celsius is best.

What is the best way to absorb sulforaphane? How do you get the most sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts? 

Sulforaphane is great. It is a must in healthy living. If you want to increase the sulforaphane content in vegetables, just heat them. This is the most popular method. Heat broccoli for 10 minutes to 70 degrees to get the best benefits. Anything more than this can destroy sulforaphane levels.

Which is better for you broccoli or sprouts for breakfast? 

There is no better way to start a day than with a healthy breakfast. Especially if you are having greens. Greens stimulate so many health benefits, they provide energy and are rich in nutrients. You should definitely have greens for breakfast. You should also eat both broccoli and broccoli sprouts for breakfast. Alternation, variation, and moderation are key! 

Which is better for you broccoli or sprouts for weight loss?

If you are looking for a food source to aid in weight loss, you should opt for broccoli sprouts, (Disclaimer: No single food can make you lose weight. Weight loss is a combination of reducing your calorie intake, exercising, eating nutritional meals, maintaining stress, sleeping well, staying hydrated, and participating in lifestyle;e activities that burn fat instead of storing them.)

You should add broccoli sprouts to your diet because they contain a lot of fiber, are very low in calories, support appetite suppressing, are high in protein, are low in fat, improve digestion, and prevent you from overeating.  

Potential downsides of broccoli sprouts. What are the disadvantages of eating sprouts?

What are the side effects of broccoli sprouts? Are broccoli sprouts really good for you? Who should avoid eating sprouts?

Here are the potential side effects of broccoli sprouts: 

  • Bacterial contamination. 
  • Raw broccoli can be unsafe during pregnancy. 
  • Risky for people with low immunity. 
  • Can be problematic for people with intestinal problems. 
  • Can cause digestive issues. 

Before these side effects scare you off, it’s important to read this paragraph first. Broccoli sprouts are mainly considered risky when they haven’t been properly freed from bacteria. This can either mean that they haven’t been washed correctly. Or the farmer didn’t have precautions in place to prevent bacterial growth. 

Consuming raw broccoli sprouts that have bacterial contamination is a risk. So to stay on the safer side, just boil all your broccoli. Another reason you might want to add precaution is that broccoli sprouts are high in fiber. Fiber isn’t easily digestible. Your body needs time. Do not consume it in high portions. Remember to seek professional help if you experience any side effects. 

Potential downsides of broccoli

Why should you not eat too much broccoli? When should you not eat broccoli? How to tell if broccoli is bad? 

Never eat expired food. They are past their date of being healthy. You will most likely experience food poisoning if you eat expired food. Do not risk your life and health. Food poisoning is really terrible.

You should not eat broccoli that is molded. Mold and bacteria growth on food is not good for your gut. Most people do not have the gut bacteria to fight off these bacteria. You can become severely ill. 

If your broccoli turns yellow, brown, or black– it’s best to toss it. This usually happens if you store it in a wet and humid condition. Always store broccoli in the fridge or freeze them. This allows them to last longer and you can boil them from frozen too. 

Remember to smell your broccoli before consuming it. If it has a foul smell, then you are better off not eating it. As mentioned above, rather eat broccoli cooked to stay safe. Also, pay attention to the texture. Soggy broccoli is a no!

Common questions on broccoli vs broccoli sprouts

At this point of the article, you almost know everything you need to know about broccoli vs broccoli sprouts! However, you might still have some questions. This section is dedicated to the FAQ on broccoli, sprouts, and sulforaphane. Scroll down and see if there are any questions you have and how you can deal with various aspects of this green shrub! 

How much broccoli sprouts to eat per day? How many broccoli sprouts should you eat a day? What happens if we eat sprouts daily?

How often should we eat sprouts? 

Half a cup of broccoli sprouts a day is enough. However, I would suggest starting slowly. Since it is high in fiber, you need to build gut strength to digest fiber. Slow incremental introduction of broccoli sprouts is key. 

Should you eat broccoli every day? How many pieces of broccoli should I eat a day? 

What happens if you eat broccoli every day for a month?

We started off this article by discussing all the benefits of broccoli and broccoli sprouts. Having those benefits every day through your meals will be great for your body. You can surely eat broccoli daily. Just ensure you first introduce it slowly (once a week perhaps), seek professional advice if you have any illnesses, cook and store them properly, and have a fully balanced variety of meals every day.

How to add broccoli sprouts to your diet

Are you looking for some fun ways to eat broccoli sprouts? I have a recipe just for you! I am a Nutritional Therapist and a gut health expert. I love eating my broccoli this way. Check it out here: https://www.healthconcepts.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/plant-based-recipe-pack-clients_2-compressed.pdf 

Where to buy broccoli sprouts?

The best place to buy broccoli sprouts is from fresh produce stores. These are stores that strictly sell fruit, veggies, and healthy food. Shops that are focused on sustainable practices and ethical growing procedures are also good options. Another great option is to buy it directly from farmers. Rather do not buy your fruit and veggies from a small deli that also sells shoes, books, and alcohol. These shops do not usually give their full attention to the correct packaging, storage, and replacement methods for vegetables. 

What is the most healthy part of broccoli?

You may be wondering what the most healthy part of broccoli is. Is it the grassy shrub? The stem? Or perhaps the part of the plant that manufacturers throw away? Broccoli is one of those veggies where the whole thing is nutritional! The leaves are rich in calcium, vitamin K, vitamin E, and antioxidants. The stalk is high in fiber. My advice is to eat the whole thing!

What is the healthiest type of sprout? What is the healthiest microgreen?

You get inedible and edible sprouts. Edible sprouts are the healthiest to eat. These include broccoli, mung beans, alfalfa, and radish. This is because they are great amino acids, exceptional sources of antioxidants, and contain various minerals and vitamins. 

Do I need to wash broccoli sprouts?

Yes, you need to wash broccoli sprouts. As a matter of fact, you need to wash all vegetables before consumption. This is due to so many reasons. If I had to name them all, I’d write a hundred pages. 

To name a few, many veggies contain pesticides. Shopkeepers could be spraying harmful chemicals on them to keep them lasting longer. Some manufacturers inject plants with growth agents. Veggies can become contaminated during transportation methods. Shelf packers can touch veggies with bacteria on their hands. Shoppers touch veggies and put them back often with bacteria on their hands. Sometimes veggies are placed on the same shelf and kept with other veggies that have already expired. The reasons are just too many. Wash your vegetables!

Can you get E.coli from broccoli sprouts?

Bacteria such as E.coli and salmonella can easily be found on vegetables such as sprouts. It is advised to cook your broccoli sprouts, store them in a cool dry area, and wash them before every use. 

The takeaway: broccoli vs broccoli sprouts

Both broccoli sprouts and broccoli are good for you. Broccoli sprouts are the first process of broccoli growth. They are packed with various vitamins, minerals, antioxidant properties, and digestive powers. You can enjoy either in various recipes. Many people enjoy them raw and crunchy. If you have any health concerns, rather eat them boiled. 

Always remember that it’s a high-fiber food. This means that you don’t need to eat a lot of broccoli fast and all at once. Slowly implement them into your diet. If you need help with meal planning and implementing a new diet into your system then you don’t have to do it alone. I am here to help you. Just contact me on my website and we can have a chat. https://www.healthconcepts.ie/contact-me/