23/01/2020
Health Benefits of Eating Microgreens
Microgreens were initially introduced in California during the 1980’s as simple garnish and toppings for dishes. Nowadays, these baby greens have come long away from being a simple vegetable confetti to starring in their own dishes thanks to their health benefits. They are often mistaken as vegetable sprouts, but are actually younger versions of them minus the roots. Microgreens are 2-3 week old veggies, which are harvested by cutting them above the soil line with their stem, cotyledon and first true leaves intact.
The sudden boost of popularity of these mini greens were not simply because of their irresistible flavor and eye catching colors. These microgreens were found to be packed with large amounts of multiple vitamins and minerals. According to studies, these baby greens actually contain higher concentrations of beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to their more mature versions.
High in Antioxidant Content
Various plants produce a number of antioxidants which are quite beneficial to the human body. Microgreens provide large amounts of these antioxidants such as Vitamin A, C, E, lutein, and beta-carotene. Antioxidants are our cells’ protectors from free radicals which our body produces to various stress and waste from food. Free radicals can be harmful when it accumulates as they can cause cancer, stroke, heart and respiratory diseases, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, immune deficiency, and etc. Leafy microgreens from the Brassica and Asteraceae family have high antioxidant contents. Just think of these substances as our body’s flushers as they help remove all these nasty free radicals from our system.
Rich in Polyphenols
Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds in plants which are also known as phytochemicals. Microgreens such as broccoli, carrot, onion, rosemary, basil, anise, and etc. contains these polyphenols. Besides their antioxidant properties, these compounds have other health benefits. They can help lower blood sugar levels as polyphenols can prevent breakdown of sugar, and stimulate insulin release. Furthermore, polyphenols supplement lowering of blood pressure and reduction of chronic inflammation. What’s more, these compounds help good digestion as they promote growth of gut bacteria and probiotics.
Provides Beneficial Minerals
Microgreens are rich in minerals such as calcium, manganese, iron and zinc which have various health benefits for our body. Calcium is an important macromineral responsible for the proper growth of our bones and teeth. And this macromineral is commonly found in green leafy microgreens such as broccoli. Next of is manganese, a trace mineral is a vital component of the body but is needed in small amounts. It helps in amino acid, carbohydrate, glucose, and cholesterol metabolism. Moreover, it also has a part in blood clotting, bone formation, and reduction of inflammation. Iron, meanwhile, is necessary for the transfer of oxygen in our entire body through our red blood cells. Also, it has an active role in energy conversion, immune system maintenance, and normal cognitive functions of the brain. Lastly, zinc, a trace mineral which is necessary for our immune system, cell division, growth of cell, and carbohydrate breakdown.
Never underestimate microgreens just because of their size. They are small greens loaded with lots of nutrients and flavor. Including them in your diet is easy as these baby greens are very versatile. They go well in various stews, salads, sandwiches, soups, and etc. Just add a dash of it in some of your favorite dishes and you’re good to go. The best part is that you don’t need to go to the market to have a taste of these microgreens. You can simply grow them at your backyard or under your windowsill.