Alfalfa sprouts are the shoots of the alfalfa plant (Medicago sativa), harvested before they become the full-grown plant. Because they are so small, the sprouts contain a concentrated amount of certain vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin K, and vitamin C.

Here are the 7 health benefits of alfalfa sprouts.

1.     Alfalfa sprouts can help you heal from open wounds.

Vitamin K contributes to blood clotting during an injury. Though uncommon, a vitamin K deficiency does occur, which can cause excessive bleeding. The daily requirement for vitamin K is 90 micrograms for women and 120 micrograms for men. One cup of alfalfa sprouts contains 10.1 micrograms or 13 percent of the daily recommended vitamin K.

2.     Alfalfa sprouts can help you build strong bones.

The vitamin K found in alfalfa sprouts acts as a modifier of bone matrix proteins, improves calcium absorption, preventing bone loss and osteoporosis.

3.     Alfalfa sprouts can help prevent iron deficiency.

When an individual does not consume enough iron, then the red blood cell count drops. This results in the following symptoms: fatigue, lack of concentration, nausea, light-headedness, and stomach disorders. The iron content in alfalfa sprouts can improve blood circulation.

4.     Alfalfa sprouts are perfect to fill your stomach and aid in weight loss.

Alfalfa sprouts are nutritionally dense. However, one cup of the sprouts only contains eight calories. Also, the fiber content inhibits the release of the hunger hormone ghrelin that tells the brain that one is ready to eat something.

5.     Alfalfa sprouts are helpful for pregnant women and their babies.

Alfalfa Sprouts are a good source of the B-vitamin complex, such as folate. Folate has shown to help in neural tube formation and red blood cell formation in prenatal babies. A deficiency of folic acid in pregnant women can lead to the birth of underweight infants and may also result in neural tube defects in newborns.

6.     Alfalfa sprouts can help fight cold sores.

The amino acid lysine found in alfalfa sprouts can help inhibit the growth of cold sores and treats the condition.

7.     Alfalfa sprouts can help keep your hair shiny and vibrant.

Regular consumption of sprouts adds shine, elasticity, and luster to the hair. Alfalfa sprouts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which provide nourishment for hair follicles. It combats dry and brittle hair, flaky scale and reverses hair loss.