Arugula-hidden benefits in this peppery green
Arugula, [əˈro͞oɡələ] the hard-to-pronounce microgreen is an amazing little superfood. What are arugula microgreens and how are they a superfood you ask? Microgreens are the stage of the plant after the seed sprouts and grow its first true leaves. This is about a 7 to 14 day process. This means that they have more time to develop their stems and leaves, which contain more nutrients than the germinated seed of sprouts. Microgreens tend to have a higher nutritional value than sprouts as they are harvested after the first true leaves appear. They are trimmed just above the soil line and packaged rather than sprouts which are washed and seed hulls are discarded but roots are kept in tact and leaves are not yet developed. They also have more nutrients than their full-grown counterpart, as much as 40x.
What are the nutrients of this tiny superfood? In an article written by curejoy.com, they discussed that every 100 grams of raw arugula leaves contain important macronutrients such as carbohydrates, fiber, and proteins; essential micronutrients such as vitamins A, C, K, B2, and folate; and minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, and especially high amounts of potassium and calcium. Among Brassica microgreens, arugula is thought to have the highest amount of vitamin C and beta carotenes. It also contains indoles, which are phytochemicals with powerful cancer-fighting abilities.
What do all these powerful nutrients do? For one, these phytochemicals can fight off various cancers by eliminating free radicals, neutralizing carcinogens, and inhibiting cell proliferation. 1 2 Vitamin K and calcium are essential for bone formation and strength. They also have lower oxalates than spinach, which means more calcium is absorbed by the body. 12 Another very interesting benefit is that arugula microgreens have anti-secretory properties that inhibit the excessive production of stomach acids. You would not have guessed that with its peppery flavor. This benefit may help reduce acidity and prevent ulcers. 1 Vitamins C, iron, folate, and potassium can help prevent anemia, detoxify the liver, support the immune system, and more. 1234
Where can you get these amazing tiny superfood? Why Harvest Acre of course. Want to try and grow your own? You can also check out True Leaf Market Seed Company and Greener Harvest as well as Johnnys Selected Seeds for seeds, trays, and soil. To learn more, check out the provided links and sources.
https://curejoy.com/content/health-benefits-of-arugula/ 2. Arugula Microgreens 101: Benefits and How to Grow (cleaneatingkitchen.com) 3. Superfood Arugula Microgreens Health Benefits | ingarden 4. Arugula microgreens nutrition: The Ultimate Guide - Microgreens starter
