Microgreens

Microgreens are dense in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which contribute to health benefits such as anti-inflammatory effects, enhanced immune function, protection against cardiovascular disease, and potential anti-cancer properties. These compounds include vitamin E and C, phenolic compounds, and carotenoids, which help reduce oxidative stress, protect cells from damage, and support overall health by acting as potent antioxidants and providing vital nutrients.

Key Health Benefits

  • Antioxidant Properties: Microgreens are rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, phenolic compounds, and carotenoids, which protect the body from oxidative stress and free radicals. 
  • Cardiovascular Health: The antioxidants in microgreens, particularly vitamin E, can protect against LDL cholesterol peroxidation, which is a factor in the development of atherosclerosis, and support overall heart health. 
  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Microgreens contain bioactive compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body. 
  • Immune Function Support: Vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals in microgreens support the immune system and can help enhance overall immune function. 
  • Anti-Cancer Potential: Research indicates that microgreens possess anti-cancer properties, likely due to their high concentration of beneficial phytochemicals. 
  • Nutritional Density: As a functional food, microgreens offer a dense concentration of vitamins and minerals, helping to diversify diets and address nutritional deficiencies. 

Why Microgreens Are Beneficial

  • High Phytochemical Content: Microgreens are packed with bioactive compounds, including polyphenols and carotenoids, that contribute to their health benefits. 
  • Rich in Essential Nutrients: They are excellent sources of vitamins such as vitamin C and E, as well as minerals like copper and zinc. 
  • Low in Anti-nutrients: Compared to some mature plants, microgreens tend to have low levels of anti-nutrients such as nitrates and oxalates, making them safe for consumption. 

Why they are considered a “functional food”

  • A Functional Food: Due to their high concentration of health-promoting compounds, microgreens are considered a functional food that goes beyond basic nutrition. 
  • Dietary Diversification: Their nutritional density and beneficial compounds can help diversify diets and combat malnutrition and diet-related diseases. 

Amaranth Microgreens

Amaranth microgreens are rich in Vitamin K, C, A and E minerals like iron, which are crucial for blood clotting, immune function, and red blood cell production, respectively. They also contain protein, essential for tissue repair. Health benefits include enhanced immune function, improved bone health, and better digestion due to high fiber content.

The three most important health benefits of amaranth microgreens are:

  1. Enhanced Immune Function: The high Vitamin C content boosts the immune system and helps combat diseases.
  2. Bone Health: Vitamin K is needed for bone health and may contribute to the prevention of osteoporosis. In addition, amaranth microgreens contain minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which help maintain strong and healthy bones. Regularly consuming these greens can contribute to bone density and help prevent osteoporosis.
  3. Improved Digestion: The fiber content in amaranth microgreens promotes healthy digestion by aiding in proper bowel movements and supporting gut health. Including these greens in your diet can help maintain a healthy digestive system.

Health benefits of Amaranth microgreens:

  • Anti-inflammatory properties: Amaranth microgreens contain phytochemicals, including polyphenols and flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory properties. Regularly consuming these greens may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
  • Nutritional support during pregnancy: The folate content in amaranth microgreens is particularly beneficial for pregnant women. Adequate folate intake is essential for fetal development, helping prevent birth defects and supporting healthy growth.
  • Energy boost: Amaranth microgreens provide an excellent source of iron, which helps in oxygen transport and energy production. Including these greens can help combat fatigue and maintain optimal energy levels.
  • Weight management support: Amaranth microgreens are low in calories, making them a valuable addition to any weight management plan. The high fiber content helps create feelings of fullness, aiding in portion control and reducing overeating.

Do you know amaranth microgreens can help inhibit the spread of cancer? According to the study, amaranth was considered to have cancer-curing properties.

Beets Microgreens

Beet microgreens, rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, magnesium, and potassium, are nutrient-dense. They contain betalains, potent antioxidants supporting heart health, boosting immunity, and aiding detoxification. High levels of folate and manganese in beets are essential for energy production and bone health.

For the nutrients listed below, beet greens contribute to over 10 % of the Recommended Daily Intakes on a 100gram basis: Vitamin K, Vitamin A Retinol Activity Equivalents, Vitamin C, Copper, Manganese, Magnesium, Riboflavin, and Potassium.

One cup of raw red beetroot (136g) provides 58 calories, 2.2g of protein, 13g of carbohydrates, and 0.2g of fat. Beet is an excellent vitamin C, fiber, and potassium source. In one cup of cooked beets, you’ll obtain 12% of your daily fiber and 7% each of your daily vitamin C, iron, and B6. You will also take in 34% of your daily folate, 11% daily potassium, and 9% daily magnesium.

The Health Benefits of Eating Beet Microgreens:

  1. Antioxidants: Antioxidants help balance out dangerous free radicals, avoiding cell damage and oxidative stress. According to research, antioxidants may contribute to the protection against a range of medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. 
  2. Beets are naturally rich in phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, and trace minerals that combat disease. Beets are a great source of betalains, a class of phytonutrients with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics responsible for many of the healing properties of beets.
  3. Anti Inflammatory Properties: Evidence indicates that chronic inflammation is the primary cause of most diseases and may have a significant role in developing long-term problems like heart disease, cancer, and obesity.

Beets is a great way to reduce inflammation because the ordinary person’s diet is exceptionally high in inflammatory components from ultra-processed foods, high levels of sugar, and low amounts of minerals.

Research has shown that both beetroot juice and cooked beets can reduce levels of inflammatory markers in persons with high blood pressure.

Additionally, beet greens are a good source of zeaxanthin and lutein, two essential carotenoids for maintaining eye health and helping lower the incidence of cataracts and macular degeneration.

  • Improves Brain Function: It’s normal to decline mental and cognitive ability as you age because diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s are more common.
  • However, there is some evidence that beetroot powder enhances brain function and may help prevent age-related cognitive decline due to its high dietary nitrate level.
  • A human study published in the Journal of Nitric Oxide found that feeding older people high levels of nitrates helped them increase blood flow into specific brain regions associated with executive function.
  • Improves Digestive Health: Beets are a good source of fiber, which passes through the intestines undigested and gives stools more weight to support regularity and improve digestive health.

A study of five research found that giving persons with constipation more fiber increased the frequency of their stools. Additional studies indicate that increasing your fiber intake through foods like beets promotes digestive health in several ways and may be preventative against illnesses like diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, and GERD

  • Weight Loss
    Regarding weight loss, beets are a fantastic addition to the diet because they are high in fiber and low in calories.
  • Fiber keeps you full by slowly moving through the digestive system, which might boost satiety and encourage weight loss. One human study out of Boston found that increasing fiber consumption by 14 grams per day resulted in a 10% reduction in daily caloric intake and an increase in weight loss of four pounds over four months.
  • Improves Eye Health
    Leutin and Vitamin A (beta-carotene), crucial for enhancing eye health, are found in beet microgreens.

A CUP of BEETS contains more than 100 % of the recommended dose for VITAMIN A.

Carrots aren’t the only vegetable with significant amounts of this critical vitamin. The cartoon character Bugs Bunny consumed them for better energy and vision. Beet microgreens are one example of a dark leafy green high in vitamin A.

According to a study by the Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group, offering beta-carotene-containing supplements to persons over 50 decreased their risk of advanced macular degeneration.

In addition to vitamin A, beet greens also contain lutein, a carotenoid with anti-inflammatory characteristics that helps prevent age-related macular degeneration.

Fenugreek Microgreens

Fenugreek microgreens are a significant source of daily energy intake and carbohydrates. They have an exceptional level of vitamins A, C, or K that play a crucial role in the immune system, promoting healthy skin and aiding in blood clotting (Kumari et al.). There are also a lot of B vitamins in them, including folate, riboflavin, and niacin, which are necessary for energy production cell function and essential for metabolic processes and overall health.

In terms of minerals, fenugreek microgreens are a good source of calcium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorous. Calcium is essential for bone health and muscle function, while iron is vital for oxygen transport in the body. In the body, magnesium is involved in more than 300 enzyme reactions. Phosphorous combines with calcium to form hydroxyapatite, a significant component of the skeletal structure, providing strength and rigidity. Phosphorus is a crucial component of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule used by cells for energy.

The high antioxidant content of fenugreek microgreens is one of its most striking characteristics. These contain compounds, as polyphenolsflavonoids, and saponins, that help the cells to resist damage from free radicals. The risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes has been shown to be reduced by antioxidants.

In addition, fenugreek microgreens are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. The fiber in fenugreek microgreens may also help to boost feelings of fullness and support weight management.

In addition, fenugreek microgreens have a low content of calories and fats, which makes them an excellent supplement to a balanced diet.

Fenugreek microgreens contain all 9 essential amino acids. Although Histidine is included, it is often considered essential only for infants, making it conditionally essential. Nonetheless, fenugreek is not typically considered a complete protein.

The Health Benefits of Eating Fenugreek Microgreens:

  1. Lower Blood Sugar Levels: They have been shown to be beneficial for patients with diabetes or at risk of developing the disease by reducing blood sugar levels. Fenugreek contains compounds that help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
  1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The high antioxidant content in fenugreek microgreens helps reduce inflammation in the body, which can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Regularly consuming fenugreek microgreens can help promote overall health and longevity.
  1. Digestive Health: Fenugreek microgreens are known for their ability to support digestive health. They contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation. Additionally, fenugreek has been used traditionally to treat digestive issues such as indigestion and bloating.
  1. Immune Boosting: The vitamins and antioxidants in fenugreek microgreens help strengthen the immune system and protect the body against infections and illnesses. Regular consumption of fenugreek microgreens can help keep the immune system strong and resilient.
  1. Weight Management: Fenugreek microgreens are low in calories but high in nutrients, making them a great addition to a weight management plan. The fiber content in fenugreek helps promote feelings of fullness, which aids in weight loss by reducing overall calorie intake.
  1. Skin Health: The antioxidants in fenugreek microgreens help promote healthy skin by protecting against oxidative damage and reducing inflammation. Additionally, fenugreek is known for its anti-aging properties, making it a valuable addition to any skincare routine.
  1. Bone Health: Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health, making fenugreek microgreens beneficial in these aspects.

Radish Microgreens

Radish microgreens are a nutrient powerhouse, boasting high levels of vitamins C, copper, and folate. They’re rich in antioxidants, promoting cellular repair, and essential minerals like calcium and iron. Their distinct peppery flavor adds a unique touch to meals, making them versatile to any diet.

They are rich in vitamins A, B, C, E, and K and minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, and magnesium. They also contain essential amino acids and are a good source of fiber. Moreover, radish microgreens are rich in antioxidants, compounds that help protect your cells against damage by free radicals.

The Health Benefits of Eating Radish Microgreens:

  1. Boosts Immune System: High in Vitamin C, radish microgreens help stimulate the immune system to produce white blood cells, the body’s primary defense against foreign pathogens.
  2. Bone Health: The presence of calcium and phosphorus in radish microgreens contributes to bone health. These minerals are essential for the growth and maintenance of strong bones and teeth.
  3. Promotes Digestive Health: The high fiber content in radish microgreens aids digestion by adding bulk to the stool, which helps prevent constipation and promotes regular bowel movements.
  4. Supports Heart Health: The potassium in radish microgreens acts as a vasodilator, reducing blood pressure and lessening the strain on the heart. Additionally, fiber helps to lower harmful cholesterol levels, further promoting heart health.
  5. Enhances Skin Health: The high water content in radish microgreens helps to keep the skin hydrated, while Vitamin C aids in collagen production, promoting skin health and slowing down aging.
  6. Supports Eye Health: Although in small amounts, the presence of lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants, can contribute to eye health by protecting against harmful blue light.
  7. Promotes Weight Loss: Low in calories and high in fiber, radish microgreens can help to promote feelings of fullness, reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight loss.
  8. Supports Brain Health: B vitamins like Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, and Vitamin B-6 are essential for brain function and mental health. They help in the production of neurotransmitters and support overall brain health.
  9. Bone Health: The presence of calcium and phosphorus in radish microgreens contributes to bone health. These minerals are essential for the growth and maintenance of strong bones and teeth.

Incorporating radish microgreens into your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being. They are particularly beneficial for their immune-boosting, heart-protective, and digestive health properties.

Spinach Microgreens

Spinach microgreens are filled with lots of nutrients such as Vitamins A, C, E, and K, minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, folate, oxidants, and essential plant compounds such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and nitrates. Spinach microgreens are also a good fiber and protein source, containing about 21 calories, adding to your daily calorie needs.

Based on earlier studies, spinach microgreens contain more significant amounts of carotenoids, vitamins, or α-tocopherol and less oxalic acid than mature plants. Moreover, based on the research, spinach microgreens have 2.5–3.0 times higher Nutritional Quality Score (NQS) than mature spinach, further highlighting their importance in a healthy diet.

Health benefits of Spinach Microgreens:

  1. Digestive health and preventing constipation: The fiber content in spinach microgreens promotes healthy digestion by adding bulk to the stool and preventing constipation. Adequate fiber intake supports regular bowel movements and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiota.
  2. Controlling blood sugar levels and aiding weight management: Fiber is essential for controlling blood sugar levels, slowing down glucose absorption. It benefits individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their weight, as it helps control appetite and promote satiety.
  3. Improves eyesight: Lutein and zeaxanthin are two carotenoids found abundantly in spinach microgreens. These compounds play a vital role in maintaining eye health and protecting against age-related vision loss, such as macular degeneration. Acting as antioxidants, lutein, and zeaxanthin help filter harmful blue light and reduce the risk of eye-related ailments.
  4. Anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits: spinach microgreens contain a variety of flavonoids, a group of phytochemicals known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Researchers have associated flavonoids with a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular conditions, by promoting cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation.
  5. Potential cancer-fighting properties: Sulforaphane is a potent phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables, including spinach microgreens. This compound has attracted considerable attention for its potential anti-cancer properties. Studies suggest that sulforaphane may help constrain cancer cell growth and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
  6. Low blood pressure and reduction of risk of cardiovascular diseases: Spinach microgreens, with their potassium content and nitrate compounds, contribute to regulating blood pressure. Potassium helps relax blood vessels, promoting healthy blood flow and reducing the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
  7. Weight Management: Incorporating spinach microgreens into a balanced diet can contribute to weight loss efforts. Their high nutrient density and low-calorie content make them a perfect choice for those seeking to shed excess pounds while nourishing their bodies with essential vitamins and minerals.

Kale Microgreens

Kale is low in fat, carbs, sugars, and protein, has moderate fiber content (4.1 g, 10.79%), and works great on a weight-loss diet like all leafy greens. Kale microgreens are astoundingly teeming with vitamins: K (325%), C (103.78%), A (26.78%), B2 (26.69%), B6 (11.31%), and B9 (15.50%). They are just rich in calcium (25.40%), iron (20%), potassium (10.24%), and manganese (40%). In addition, they provide lutein, zeaxanthin (104.33%), moderate fiber (10.79%), and all 9 essential amino acids. They are a potent superfood for overall wellness.

Health benefits of Kale Microgreens:

  1. Preventing Osteoporosis: Vitamin K is crucial in promoting bone health and aiding in blood clotting. A diet rich in kale microgreens can help ensure adequate intake of this essential nutrient, potentially reducing the risk of bone fractures and bleeding disorders.
  2. Immune Health: Apart from vitamin K, Kale microgreens are teeming with nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and calcium. These nutrients are known for their immune-boosting properties, helping to protect the body against various diseases.
  3. Reduce Chronic Disease: Moreover, kale microgreens are rich in antioxidants. These substances help to protect the cells against free radicals, a kind of unstable molecule that can damage your cells. This antioxidant effect may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
  4. Bioavailable: Furthermore, research suggests that the nutrients in kale microgreens are highly bioavailable. This means they are easily absorbed by the body, ensuring you get the maximum health benefits from consuming these greens.
  5. Medicinal Properties: Kale microgreens also have potential medicinal properties. Some studies suggest that they may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed in this area.
  6. Eye Health: A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to night blindness and, in severe cases, total vision loss. The macula, a part of the retina, contains high concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin. They act as antioxidants, protecting the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. They also help to filter out harmful high-energy blue wavelengths of light, acting as a natural sunblock for the eyes.

Broccoli Microgreens

Broccoli is high in sulforaphane. Broccoli microgreens sulforaphane is even higher and more potent than sprouts or mature broccoli. The nutrition in broccoli microgreens is tremendous and includes: vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, macro-elements calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous, and micro-elements iron, copper, and zinc.

Even more, broccoli microgreens benefits include reversing chronic illnesses such as heart disease and type II diabetes.

Health benefits of Broccoli Microgreens

  1. Sulforaphane: Glucoraphanin, a sulfur-producing glucosinolate, is the precursor to sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is the most beneficial compound in broccoli microgreens.

Several studies have shown that broccoli microgreens high in glucoraphanin decreased oxidative stress and inflammation in kidneys and reduced blood pressure in the cardiovascular system.

Other studies have shown that sulforaphane is a potential candidate drug for AD therapy and prevention.  Sulforaphane has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the respiratory pathways and the symptoms of asthma.

The sulforaphane and carotenoids in broccoli contain powerful oxidants that heal the damage to our eyes’ retinal cells.

New studies also show that sulforaphane reduces glucose production in your liver and improves glucose control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

  • Cancer prevention: Numerous studies show that sulforaphane is a safe and relatively nontoxic chemo-preventive agent that uses anticancer activities.

At least one study has shown that eating broccoli microgreens may help prevent colon cancer and possibly other cancers.

Many of us have gastronomical problems. Researchers now believe that eating broccoli microgreens every day blocks the Helicobacter pylori bacteria’s growth and reduces gastritis in patients infected with the bacteria. Gastric cancer risk increases as much as six-fold in individuals infected with H. pylori.

Another study has shown that eating broccoli microgreens inhibits breast cancer stems cells.

The polyphenols and glucosinolates in broccoli microgreens are a broad category of bioactive compounds that have been associated with preventing several chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseaseobesity, and cancers.

Mustard Microgreen

The mustard plant is most well known for its tiny, yellowish seeds that produce one of the most popular condiments on Earth, mustard. But for centuries, a range of cultures have used the plant’s green leaves for food and health purposes, such as a/an:

  • antiseptic and disinfectant to heal wounds
  • diuretic to support kidney function
  • detoxifying agent to purify and strengthen the blood
  • treatment for cough and sore throats

Modern research supports mustard greens’ rich nutritional content—they’ve got more vitamin A than spinach and more vitamin C than oranges. While studies don’t acknowledge all of its traditional uses, they suggest the greens can bring a number of health benefits.

Today, there are many different varieties of mustard greens available that add a bitter, spicy flavor to any meal. You can eat them raw, boiled, steamed, or stir-fried. It’s easy to add mustard greens to your diet. 

Health benefits of Mustard Microgreens

  1. Mustard greens are a rich source of vitamins and minerals your body needs to stay healthy. One serving contains about 39% of your daily vitamin C needs. Vitamin C contributes to your body’s immune system defenses, so it’s important to get enough of it throughout your day.
  2. Cooked mustard greens can also have up to your entire daily requirement of vitamin A. This vitamin supports many body functions, including good heart, lung, and kidney health.  
  3. Lower Risk of Chronic Disease: Mustard greens contain a range of powerful phytonutrients. These plant-based antioxidants protect your cells from stress and damage caused by the free radicals our bodies accumulate from aging, the environment, and lifestyle behaviors.

Over time, this cell damage is linked with arthritis, autoimmune disorders, heart problems, and cognitive decline. Research shows that antioxidants’ activity can enhance immune defense and reduce the risk of many chronic diseases.

Like other cruciferous vegetables, mustard greens also contain glucosinolates, nutrients that give the plant a bitter flavor. In addition to their antioxidant activity, studies show glucosinolates may fight cancer cells and prevent tumor formation, but more research is needed to study these effects. 

Lettuce Microgreens

Humble lettuce microgreens are a silent powerhouse of vitamins K (105% RDI), A (41.11%), and C (10.22%), lutein + zeaxanthin (28.83%), and manganese (10.87%). They contain 18 20 amino acids in small quantities, including all 9 essential ones. The high levels of antioxidants in lettuce microgreens, particularly beta-carotene, boost the immune system, promoting eye health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Health benefits of Lettuce Microgreens

  1. Bone and Blood Health: The essential element for the health of blood clotting and bone is vitamin K. According to a study titled “Vitamin K and Bone Health: A Review on the Effects of Vitamin K Deficiency and Supplementation and the Effect of Non-Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants on Different Bone Parameters” by J. M. Beulens et al., The risk of bone fractures is increased if vitamin K deficiency occurs, and sufficient intake may help to maintain good bone health.
  2. Heart Health: Antioxidants in lettuce microgreens may help reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
  3. Eye Health and Cell Growth: Lettuce microgreens’ high vitamin A content benefits eye health, immune function, and cell growth. Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, helps protect the body against free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. In addition, it has a vital role in the synthesis of collagen and wound healing as well as iron absorption.
  4. Cardiovascular health: A study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism found that consuming lettuce microgreens increased the levels of beneficial compounds in the blood associated with cardiovascular health.
  5. Cancer prevention: Some research suggests that lettuce microgreens may have cancer-preventive properties. For example, a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that lettuce microgreens had higher levels of lutein and zeaxanthin. These two antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer.
  6. Weight Loss: For those who want to lose weight, lettuce microgreens are low in calories, fats, and sugars and moderately high in fiber.

Wheat Grass Microgreens

Wheatgrass is used in Ayurveda to treat high acid levels, inflammation in the colon, poor kidney function, and wounds. Ayurveda is a natural system of medicine that originated in India over 3,000 years ago, and its practitioners say that lifestyle changes and natural therapies can help balance your body, mind, spirit, and environment. Wheatgrass is also used in folk medicine to treat colds, coughs, fevers, gout, infections, joint pain, chronic skin disorders, constipation, and swelling of the throat and mouth.

Benefits of Wheatgrass Microgreens

  1. It’s a superfood: A superfood is a food that is rich in compounds, like antioxidants or fiber, and is considered beneficial to your health. Its combination of vitamins and nutrients may make wheatgrass a good addition to enhance your well-being. Wheatgrass has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
  2. It contains the following nutrients that is beneficial to your health: iron, calcium, enzymes, magnesium, phytonutrients, 17 amino acids, vitamins A, C, E, K, and B complex, chlorophyll and proteins.
  3. It eliminates toxins: The nutrients in wheatgrass may aid your body in getting rid of impurities and stored toxins. The chlorophyll in wheatgrass helps to detoxify the body. It may also strengthen the immune system and regulate your metabolism.
  4. Help in digestion: wheatgrass contains both essential and nonessential amino acids. These amino acids result in high quality proteins which can aid in digestion. Wheatgrass has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This may help with various digestive issues, such as colitis-related issues. 
  5. Help lower cholesterol: According to research from 2017 on Asian females, 3.5g of wheatgrass each day for 10 weeks lowered total cholesterol levels. It also improved levels of triglycerides.
  6. Good source of energy: Wheatgrass is a good source of energy because it contains significant levels of important nutrients like: proteins, fiber, vitamins and minerals.
  7. High in antioxidants: Antioxidants are chemicals that fight free radicals in the body. Free radicals can cause damage to your cells, which may lead to heart disease, cancer, and other long-term health conditions. 

Harvest of Microgreens and the nutritional effects:

According to research chlorophyll retention in radish microgreens after harvest was dramatically affected by storage temperature. When samples were stored at 1 °C, the radishes retained nearly 100% over 2-week storage period, but when stored at 5 °C retention dropped to approximately 60%, and at 10 °C plummeted to 25%. Microgreen nutrition studies have focused on the Brassicaceae family, but other vegetable families that have received little attention. When microgreens are harvested, they a have high respiration rate. Research has stated that shelf life of microgreens is 3 to 5 days at ambient temperature. However, it would be unwise to store any harvested leafy green at ambient temperature. The greatest “shelf life” of microgreens is achieved by selling them still rooted in the growth medium. Harvested microgreens must be kept cold to maintain quality. Depending on cultivar and storage conditions, quality may be maintained for over 14 days. There are no food code requirements for microgreens, but preliminary studies suggest that microgreens should be stored at temperatures of less than and equal to 5 °C. Microgreens resistant to chilling injury can beheld as low as 1 °C. Microgreens freeze rapidly if held below 0 °C, causing substantial physical damage. Although high humidity is necessary to prevent dehydration, it also promotes microbial growth and decay. Thus, a combination of adequate cold chain and suitable modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) are essential to reduce respiration rates, prevent moisture loss, reduce environmental contamination, and inhibit growth of spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms.