Microgreens, also known as vegetable confetti, are tiny versions of leafy vegetables and herbs. They are grown in the same manner as other vegetables and plants and shouldn't be confused with sprouts.
They are specifically seedlings harvested in their primary stage of growth. You get them from seeds of various plants like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.
Microgreens may seem a bit expensive when compared to sprouts and other vegetables. However, the added cost is well worth it.
Why?
It’s because microgreens contain 40 times more nutrients than their mature plant counterparts. A spoon of microgreens added to your meals offer the same, or even more benefits, than a bowl of vegetables.
The reason for all these benefits of microgreens is because they are harvested immediately after germination. When harvested at the right time, they remain concentrated with nutrients, flavor, and texture.
It’s not just the nutrients. There are various other reasons and ways microgreens are good for you.
While different microgreens boast of varying nutrient levels; they have higher vitamin C and vitamin E levels and carotenoids. Though they pack a punch in nutrients, they are low in energy. That’s why microgreens are great for those on diets. They are nutritionally dense, full of fiber, and low in calories. Just what the dietician ordered!
While sprouts are added to dishes mainly for the crunch; microgreens are added both for their crunch and zesty flavor. They are generally sweeter or more peppery in taste than their mature counterparts.
The taste helps lift recipes both visually and in taste. Besides, the added taste in microgreens negates the need for any added seasoning, which is another health benefit.
Besides the taste and nutrition, there's another reason why microgreens are popular with chefs worldwide. Microgreens are not just green in color like most vegetables are. The different seeds produce microgreens in a plethora of colors that enhance the looks of any dish. You get red, purple, blue, opal, yellow, and even black microgreens.
According to a study, microgreens are a great source of antioxidants. They are a rich source of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can reduce the risk of heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Microgreens are so tiny that you can easily add them to your favorite dishes. Adding them to a smoothie is the perfect way to give children their share of nutrients a day without knowing it. They can also be ground and used to bake goods, oatmeal or pancakes.
Regular consumption of microgreens offers various health benefits and reduces the risk of multiple diseases.
High blood pressure increases the risk of possible heart disease. The fiber and vitamin K in microgreens, with your doctor's blood pressure medication, can reduce blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.
According to the Journal Future of Oncology, broccoli microgreens contain sulforaphane. It's a compound that can target cancer stem cells, suggesting that microgreens may have anti-cancer properties.
Did you know that making a salad can help build your body immunity? It's because any vegetable is anti-inflammatory, with the potential of improving your body's immunity. With microgreens having much more nutrients than regular vegetables, they make an optimal immunity-boosting package.
According to a study conducted by Frontiers in Plant Science microgreens contain lutein (a vision health phytochemical) that helps eyes absorb any excess light intensity.
If you suffer from migraines and headaches because of squinting to the computer screen’s light intensity, try adding some microgreens to your diet. With time, you may notice an improvement in your eyesight.
Fiber is always the remedy to cure constipation. So with microgreens full of fiber, adding it to your diet can improve digestion and prevent constipation.
According to the journal Gut Microbes, microgreens are rich in prebiotic fiber which nourishes friendly gut prebiotic organisms. In short, its prebiotic fibers help stimulate the growth of helpful intestinal bacteria for better digestive health.
The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry states that red cabbage microgreens can help reduce cholesterol levels.
A study proves that fenugreek microgreens can enhance cellular sugar uptake by up to 44%.
Many people may know that microgreens are good for them. However, they hesitate to include them in their diet because they wonder if it’s safe to eat microgreens.
Well, yes, microgreens are generally safe to eat.
Many fear the risk of possible food poisoning. However, the good news is that, unlike sprouts, the potential for bacteria growth in microgreens is much smaller.
It's because microgreens do not require the same humid and warm conditions to germinate as sprouts do. Besides, only the stems and leaves of microgreens are consumed. You do not eat the entire root and seeds like sprouts.
For safety reasons, it's always better to grow microgreens seeds bought from a reputable company.
Also, make sure they are grown in conditions with minimal risk of contamination of harmful bacteria. These are safe and recommended practices to follow if you plan to grow microgreens at home.
Last but not least, recent evidence proves that growing vegetables in school encourages children to eat more vegetables through a varied diet. So, in short, growing microgreens help the future generation eat more healthily.
Microgreens are indeed good for you.
They offer multiple health benefits, are packed with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, and their crunch and flavor make boring meals tastier.
Besides, they are so quickly grown at home, proving to be a cost-effective means of improving your daily nutrient intake without eating too many vegetables.
