We’ve all heard of the term “superfood” before. But what exactly is a superfood? It is defined as a food that is nutritionally dense and packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. And while there are many foods, especially microgreens, that fall under this category. One food in particular stands out head and shoulders above the rest – broccoli microgreens. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5362588/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128127803000015
Tiny Green Powerhouses
Here’s why broccoli microgreens are such a powerhouse of nutrition, they contain up to 40 times more vitamins and minerals than their mature counterparts. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which help protect our cells from damage. So it’s no wonder these little green powerhouses of nutrition are being hailed as the miracle food of the future. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/broccoli-sprouts
But what exactly does that mean for our health? Let’s take a closer look:
Eat Them In A Variety of Ways
Broccoli microgreens are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to smoothies to soups. They have a mild sweet taste and a fresh and crunchy texture. In Fact they are a great choice to include with anything you eat. They can also be juiced or dehydrated and used as a powder supplement or simply as a spice. No matter how you choose to incorporate broccoli microgreens into your diet, one thing is for sure – you’re doing your body a world of good!
Broccoli Microgreens Are Loaded With Vitamins & Minerals
Broccoli microgreens are especially rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as iron, calcium, and potassium. These vitamins and minerals are essential for maintaining optimal health. For example, vitamin C helps boost our immune system, while vitamin A is important for vision health. Iron helps transport oxygen throughout our body, and calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Potassium aids in proper muscle function. As you can see, these nutrients play a vital role in keeping our bodies functioning properly.
Did You Know They Are High In Antioxidants?
Antioxidants help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress, which has been linked to a variety of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. By including broccoli microgreens in your diet, you’re helping to fight against these diseases. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-broccoli-sprouts
Broccoli Microgreens Can Aid In Digestion
The high fiber content in broccoli microgreens aids digestion by promoting regularity and preventing constipation. Their high amounts of insoluble fiber help clear out the digestive tract by sweeping through it and collecting unwanted materials such as toxins and undigested food.
In addition, studies show that broccoli microgreens boost gastric juices and bile production, making digestion easier. However, this benefit is enhanced when you eat both broccoli microgreens and regular broccoli together.
Did you know that they can also prevent stomach ulcers and protect against infections such as E. coli, salmonella, and shigella. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5773831/
They Can Improve Your Mood
Research suggests that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables like broccoli microgreens can help improve overall mood, thanks to their high levels of vitamin C and folic acid. A 2013 study from Harvard University found that adults who ate more than five servings of fruits and vegetables per day reported feeling less sadness, stress, anxiety, and depression than those who had lower intakes. In particular, a diet high in vitamin C may have contributed to lower anxiety symptoms.
Additionally, broccoli microgreens are rich in tryptophan, an essential amino acid that helps boost serotonin levels. Serotonin is known as the feel-good chemical because it produces feelings of contentment and well-being. It can also promote visual cognition, learning, memory skills, and aggression control.
So, including broccoli microgreens on your sandwich or salad can give it an extra kick of flavor and texture and put you in a better mood. Or, if you find yourself feeling grumpy after a rough day, grab some microgreens and snack away. You’ll feel better with every bite.
They Help With Heart Disease
Like other cruciferous vegetables, broccoli microgreens are rich in sulforaphane, a sulfur-rich compound with powerful health benefits, including promoting cardiovascular health and fighting heart disease.
Sulforaphane contains antioxidant properties that help fight inflammation and cancel out free radicals that may cause oxidative stress. Both inflammation and oxidation are risk factors for heart disease.
Broccoli microgreens are rich in nitrates, which are broken down to release nitric oxide. Nitric oxide plays an important role in dilating and relaxing blood vessels, allowing for a more effective blood flow throughout the body.
This helps regulate blood pressure, thus promoting cardiovascular health. Also, nitric oxide prevents plaque formation within the vessels and blood clots that may trigger heart attacks and strokes. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464611000843
Broccoli Microgreens Can Help Fight Cancer
Broccoli microgreens contain glucosinolates. When eaten, glucosinolates break down into several potent compounds, most notably sulforaphane. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11352861/
Also, sulforaphane has been shown to fight cancer by increasing cell death in cancer cells and slowing down tumor growth. Tests have shown that it has been found to slow or even reverse the damage done by a variety of cancer-causing agents. And it has also been found to inhibit breast cancer stem cells. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6885086/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20388854/
Sulforaphane has also been shown to be effective in prostate cancer, oral cancer, skin cancer, colon cancer, and bladder cancer. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7802872/#:~:text=Presently%2C%20there%20is%20growing%20evidence,urinary%20bladder%20and%20oral%20cancers.(opens%20in%20a%20new%20tab
So by consuming broccoli microgreens regularly you can help to fight against common cancers affecting most people today.
They Can Boost Your Immune System
Because broccoli is a rich source of glucoraphanin, a compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, consuming broccoli microgreens can help boost your immune system. They are rich in vitamin A, C, and E, all of which are powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and prevent disease.
Kick your immune system into high gear, especially during cold & flue season. By eating broccoli microgreens you will get that extra the punch of vitamin C which is known to be an immunity booster. Fight off bacteria and viruses by eating broccoli microgreens every day, that way you will help your body be ready to fight off colds & flu.
They also provide a substantial amount of folic acid, which has also been shown to boost the immune system besides maintaining normal blood. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/
Broccoli Microgreens Can Help Fight fatigue
Broccoli microgreens are a natural energy booster. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Iron deficiency can cause fatigue and lead to anemia, which can be prevented by consuming broccoli microgreens regularly. They also contain high levels of chlorophyll, which helps cleanse your body from toxins and speeds up your metabolism. This can increase your energy levels.
Moreover, broccoli microgreens contain twice as much protein as most cooked leafy greens. This nutrient is especially beneficial for those who work out frequently and need more protein in their diet. Protein gives us energy, makes us feel satiated, builds muscle, and aids in weight loss. It also helps slow down digestion to keep you feeling full longer, thus keeping your energy levels steady. So if you’re not eating broccoli microgreens yet, start today
Can Improve eyesight
While you probably wouldn’t eat microgreens to improve your eyesight, they’re loaded with carotenoids, including zeaxanthin and lutein, that help keep your eyes healthy. Zeaxanthin and lutein are two powerful antioxidants that work synergistically to maintain eye health.
Studies show that lutein is particularly helpful for maintaining healthy eyes, especially in regard to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD causes vision loss by damaging parts of the retina; lutein can reduce damage from AMD by helping protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
On the other hand, a study published in Experimental Eye Research revealed that a diet rich in zeaxanthin may reduce cataract formation and further age-related macular degeneration (AMD) related complications. In addition to eye health, it is thought that zeaxanthin can help prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease as well. https://www.naturaleyecare.com/blog/broccoli-and-your-brain/
How to Eat Broccoli Microgreens
Toss them in salads
Toss broccoli microgreens into your salad for an extra nutritional boost. You can also try mixing them with arugula, kale, and spinach. Arugula is especially good since it compliments them well.
Sprinkle them on sandwiches
Are you tired of your usual lunchtime sandwich toppings? Try sprinkling some broccoli microgreens on top of your favorite bread. The mild, fresh and crunchy flavor will bring a new dimension to an old staple, while also bringing added fiber and nutrients.
Blend in a smoothie
Though broccoli microgreens are high in nutrition, they also have a great taste and smell. That’s why they’re great in smoothies! By blending your fresh greens or by using a powdered broccoli microgreen with other healthy ingredients, you can get all of their incredible health benefits and flavor.
Make pesto
Try making a batch of pesto out of broccoli microgreens. This classic green sauce tastes just as good with microgreens as it does with basil, making it a perfect match for many dishes, including pasta and pizza.
Broccoli microgreens are a fresh, crunchy and of course healthy addition to any bowl of soup. Let them sit on top to retain their crunchiness or stir them in if you would like. Just toss in as little or as much as desired and enjoy! Or you can make a homemade soup out of them. Delicious!
Add To Soup Or Make A Soup
Put Them In A Stir Fry
Chicken, beef, seafood or pork stir frys all taste amazing with some broccoli microgreens thrown in. Or just make a great vegetable stir fry and use them for flavor and nutrition.
Where Do I Buy Broccoli Microgreens Or Any Type Of Microgreen?
You can get your microgreens from your local farmers market or a health food or healthy grocery store. You can also order them online in certain areas for delivery to your door or you can pick them up where specified. Of course, your local farmer/grower or farmers market will have your freshest supply. As with all produce that is brought into a grocery store you won’t know exactly how long it took to get there or how long it has already been there. https://getfascinatedmicrogreens.com/shop/
So There You Have It!
Everything you need to know about broccoli microgreens! If you’re looking for a nutrient-rich food that can help improve your overall health, then look no further than these tiny power houses. Add them to your diet today and reap the many benefits they have to offer!
