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I know this is off topic from my usual info on soap and skincare but, hear me out. Nutrition plays an important part in the health of your skin- it's not just important to choose high quality products to put ON your body, but it is equally important to choose nutritious foods to put IN you body! My current obsession is sprouting seeds and micro greens which can be done with a few easy to find supplies and a tiny bit of counter space! 

WHY SPROUTS?

• Sprouts provide more bang for their buck!  They are nutrient dense, providing a more  concentrated source of vitamins and nutrients 
• You can grow them easily and quickly in your own home, providing a fresh source of fiber and nutrients
• They are eaten raw which maintains the integrity of their enzymes, vitamins and phytonutrients that are often diminished by the heat used when cooking
• They provide a source of skin loving vitamins and minerals such as zinc, antioxidants, and vitamins A,B,D and E

WHAT ARE THE "BEST" SPROUTS?

• Alfalfa, broccoli, and radish are good options that are easy to grow taste great, and provide lots of nutrients
• Make sure you buy seeds that are sold for sprouting from a reputable source. This is important because seeds that are sold for sprouting have been handled and packaged to diminish the risk of bacteria. 
• Here are some links to seeds I have personally used with great success:

THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES

• Mason jars with screened lids for easy draining
• Tablespoon measuring spoon 
• Seeds
• Water
• Designated counter space 
• Drip tray and stands (optional)

Amazon has a kit you can purchase here that includes the jars, lids, stands and trays.

HOW TO SPROUT YOUR SEEDS

1. Make sure to wash your hands and thoroughly wash and dry the jars and lids. This is very important to decrease risk of bacteria or mold growth.
2. Add 2 Tablespoons of seeds to a mason jar and add enough water to cover seeds. Let sit for 8-12 hours.
3. Drain water ( make sure you have the screened lids on securely!) and place jar on stand with drip tray underneath. If you do not have a stand then make sure to drain as mush water as possible and then invert the jar and prop it at an angle to ensure it drains completely
4. Twice a day you will rinse with water and then drain. Make sure you rinse them gently with cool water (avoid very cold or hot water as this can cause damage to your seeds).
5. Continue rinsing and draining twice a day for 3-7 days depending on the type of seeds used. The last day I like to set them on the windowsill to get a little but of sunlight before harvesting.
6. When the sprouts are ready to harvest, remove them from he jar and give them a thorough rinsing.  They need to be dried before storing in an airtight container and refrigerated. A salad spinner works great and also helps to remove any unsprouted seeds. 
7. Once washed and dried place them in a food safe container along with a dry paper towel and they will keep in your fridge for about a week. 

I have been enjoying sprouts on my sandwiches and salads. They add a satisfying bit of crunch and texture while boosting the nutritional value of my meal. I hope you will give sprouting seeds a try - this is an easy way to grow a substantial amount of food with little effort. The picture below shows how 2 tablespoons ends up filling an entire jar with sprouts!