Microgreens. Everyone is talking about them these days. Maybe you had them as a garnish at a high-end restaurant; maybe your health-conscious neighbor has raved about them like they're the new wonder pill, or perhaps you saw them on the news! A study published in the National Library of Medicine states, “Microgreens are often more nutrient-dense than ungerminated seeds or mature vegetables.” Microgreens are vegetables harvested at the cotyledon stage of plant development, where the seeds have germinated and have produced a few leaves, but they have not yet grown to their baby green or mature state. Microgreens' germination and initial growth process increases the bioavailability of nutrients contained in the plant.

According to the American Gastroenterological Association, “Forty percent of Americans' daily lives are disrupted by digestive troubles.” And over half have no idea what to do about it. So, if you are one of the millions of Americans who have had abominable disturbances of the lower abdomen put a hold on their routine activities to run to the bathroom, keep reading! There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that regular consumption of microgreens is beneficial for gut health, meaning Microgreens could be a significant benefit to you and your overall health.

5 Ways Microgreens Aid Gut Health

1. Fiber

Microgreens are a great source of fiber. Fiber reduces constipation, prevents IBS, and lowers the risk of developing hemorrhoids. In essence, it keeps you regular. If you have ever had digestive issues before, you know how critical it is to consume a good amount of fiber each day. Microgreens are a fun, unprocessed, easy, and healthy way to do that!

2. Glucosinolates

Microgreens contain these compounds called phytochemicals. They contain many different kinds, but one type that is found in high amounts in microgreens and has been studied recently is glucosinolates. Phytochemicals like glucosinolates are directly linked to preventing colon cancer.

3. Antioxidants

Antioxidants have become a household term these days. However, most people associate them with berries, wine, and dark green leafy vegetables. Microgreens are actually fantastic sources of antioxidants! Antioxidants like beta-carotene are linked to preventing a host of chronic illnesses, many of which affect the gut. They also reduce inflammation in the gut, which is a primary culprit of gut issues. Eating foods that reduce inflammation is a big way for those with gut issues to minimize flare-ups.

4. Gut Microbiome

For many reasons, consuming microgreens regularly will positively benefit your gut microbiome. All of us have a vast number of beneficial bacteria in our bodies, many of which are found in our gut. Fiber, often called prebiotics, is one major benefit to these microorganisms. In addition, microgreens are produced without the need to use pesticides. Pesticides kill beneficial and harmful bacteria of all kinds. Therefore, it prevents any beneficial bacteria from entering our systems. So, when food is produced without the need for pesticide use, and it is consumed, it enhances the gut microbiome. Furthermore, microgreens are known to have high amounts of polyphenols, a special type of antioxidants that are linked to promoting gut microbiota.

5. Micronutrient Density

Micronutrients such as magnesium, potassium, and zinc are abundant in many varieties of microgreens. These minerals support enzyme functions and help maintain the integrity of the gut lining. When our body has ample, high-quality sources of micronutrients, all aspects of our health improve, and it often starts with the gut. Taking micronutrient supplements can only do so much. Our bodies absorb micronutrients best from high-quality food sources. Microgreens are a great example of these.

Consuming microgreens regularly has dozens of other benefits beyond gut health. What’s more, they are incredibly easy to produce. That is part of the reason that so much research is going into them these days- they are accessible to basically everyone! They need less light, time, space, and soil than their adult vegetable counterparts, resulting in a much higher nutrient density. In other words, they are highly efficient. True Leaf Market has many different kits and seed options to choose from; everyone is sure to find something that will work for them. No longer do we need a garden plot or even a patio to grow fresh, healthy vegetables. Take control of your health today and grow microgreens!

Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

I am a native of Southwestern Michigan, where I also reside, and I love all things plants! I got a Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture and found the first work-from-home job I could get. Now, I spend my days writing for TLM, playing with my dog, eating delicious food with my husband, and plotting my next landscape or gardening move. I believe everyone should get down and dirty in the soil now and then. Happy Gardening!