In this blog, I wanted to spotlight the health benefits of arugula. Arugula packs a punch when it comes to nutrition. Not only is arugula a tasty green, but is healthy for you too. Arugula is a cruciferous vegetable like kale, brussels sprouts and broccoli. That is one of the reasons it helps fight disease, as cruciferous vegetables contains high levels of polyphenols.  Arugula is also rich in other antioxidants and nutrients that are good for your body and health. Some nutrients found in arugula include: calcium, vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium, folate, potassium and protein. Like spinach, arugula is a good source of iron, which is important for blood oxygenation and energy. Arugula has other health benefits, as well. 

Health Benefits of Arugula

Helps Reduce Inflammation

Arugula and other greens are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that help fight inflammation in the body. Arugula also contains vitamin C and isothiocyanates, which have been shown to fight inflammation. Try adding arugula to a dinner salad, stir-fry, spaghetti sauce or lasagna to help boost your energy and nutrient intake.

Helps With Eye Health

Arugula may help with eye health. That’s because it is rich in carotenoids including beta-carotene, leutin and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids help with macular degeneration, which is a leading cause of blindness. They also help protect your eyes from the damaging blue rays of the sun. 

Helps With Digestion

Arugula is rich in fiber and is also hydrating, so it helps your body with the digestion process. Fiber rich foods, including leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables help also add bulk and make you feel full for longer periods of time. Additionally, they help create good bacteria, which helps improve the gut lining promoting a healthy gut. 

Thanks for reading!

Barb

P. S. If you are interested in reading more about healthful eating and living a healthy lifestyle, you might want to check out my book, Wholey Cow A Simple Guide To Eating And Living.

Source:

¹Zelman, Kathleen M. “Arugula: Nutrition, Benefits, Risks, & More.” WebMD, WebMD, 31 July 2019, www.webmd.com/food-recipes/benefits-arugula.

2Levy, Jillian. “Top 10 Arugula Benefits for the Heart, Gut & More.” Dr. Axe, 4 Oct. 2019, draxe.com/nutrition/arugula/.