how much calories in sprouts

Sprouts are generally a very low-calorie food, so you don’t really need to worry too much about piling them onto your salad. They’re nutritious and provide a great deal of vitamins and minerals without adding a significant calorie load. Specifically, calories in sprouts vary a bit depending on the type, but let’s dig into some common examples. Alfalfa sprouts contain about 8 calories per cup, which is quite low. They’re rich in vitamin K and C, and also provide a bit of protein and fiber. Mung bean sprouts, on the other hand, have around 30 calories per cup and are a good source of vitamins C and K, folate, and magnesium. Despite the slightly higher calorie count in mung bean sprouts compared to alfalfa, both are minimal in caloric terms and offer a healthy punch of nutrients. Incorporating a variety of sprouts in your diet can contribute to a well-rounded intake of vitamins and minerals. Sprouting your own beans and lentils is indeed an excellent move as it may enhance the bioavailability of certain nutrients and reduce anti-nutritional factors such as phytic acid. When considering your overall calorie intake, sprouts are unlikely to make a dent, allowing you to enjoy them without worry. Just keep in mind some safety aspects when sprouting at home to reduce the risk of bacteria such as E. coli — always wash them thoroughly and ensure they’re stored correctly. So, in terms of calorie balance for your meals, you can be pretty reassured that sprouts align well with your health-conscious goals.