What measurable nutrient level is indicated to increase when comparing dry grains to their sprouted counterparts, specifically regarding Folate (B9) and Niacin (B3)?
Certain B vitamins
During the biochemical activation that occurs as a seed transitions from dormancy to germination, the internal chemistry shifts to support embryonic growth, which directly impacts vitamin concentrations. Studies focusing on this transformation have demonstrated a notable increase in certain B vitamins. Specifically, both Folate, which is Vitamin B9, and Niacin, which is Vitamin B3, show elevated levels in the sprouted food relative to the unsprouted dry seed or grain. This increase is a direct result of the metabolic activity preparing the seed for rapid growth. While not every nutrient increases, this specific rise in certain water-soluble vitamins like B9 and B3 is a consistently cited nutritional benefit associated with the sprouting technique.
