Microgreens in Today’s world

Now a day, people are talking much about Microgreens, why? Microgreens are tiny seedling of edible plants which has higher amount of antioxidants, carotenoids, vitamins and minerals than any other large plants. Microgreens are grown from broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, arugula, peas, basil, radish, cucumber, sweat pea, cress and others too. They are rich in nutrients including vitamin A, B, C, E and K, Macroelements such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorous and micronutrients such as iron, zinc and copper.

Countries like USA, UK, Australia, Brazil, China, Japan, Russia, India, Germany, Indonesia, South Korea and France. Globally, Market value of Microgreens has been raised from $1.71 billion in 2022 to $1.94 billion in 2023. The main reason for the rise of Microgreens are healthy eating and organic foods. Microgreens are highly nutritious and packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a popular choice for health – conscious consumers. Another factor growing popularity of urban farming and Home gardening.

Microgreens can be grown indoors or in small spaces, making them an ideal crop for people living in cities or with limited outdoor space. Many people are now growing their own microgreens at home for personal consumption, which has helped to drive up demand for seeds and growing supplies.

The restaurant industry has also played a role in the rise of microgreens. May chiefs have begun incorporating microgreens into their dishes as a way to add Flavours, Texture and visual appearance. They are used in salads, soups, veggies, bread, appetizers, desserts, some smoothies and more.

Microgreen helps in reduce the risk of some diseases and they are:

1. Heart Diseases – The antioxidants and carotenoids in microgreens helps in reducing cholesterol and lower inflammatory response, reduce the risk of heart diseases.

2. Cancer – consuming microgreens helps in reducing the risk of certain cancer diseases.

3. Diabetes – High carotenoids of microgreens helps in slowing down carbohydrate metabolism and keeps blood sugar levels in control.

4. Neurodegenerative Disease – Microgreens contain antioxidants such as polyphenols, alkaloids, flavonoids and terpens and reduce the risk of Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease and Huntington’s disease.

5. Kidney Diseases – Microgreens contain low potassium levels which is highly helpful for kidney patients who need to lower potassium levels.

6. Digestive Health – Dietary fiber and prebiotics help to promote and improve guts health.

Here are some examples of microgreens help in certain health conditions and chronic diseases:

1. Broccoli microgreens: These are rich in sulforaphane, a compound that has anti-cancer properties. Sulforaphane has been shown to prevent the growth of certain types of cancer cells including those found in breast, prostate, oral and colon cancer.

2. Radish microgreens: These are high in Vitamin C and Anthocyanins compounds. These compounds are help to reduce inflammation, chronic disease like heart disease and cancer.

3. Sunflower: These microgreens are high in vitamin E, help as anti-inflammatory agents for Arthritis and Asthma and also as an immune boosting agents.

4. Kale microgreens: These Microgreens are rich in Vitamin K, Vitamin C. These helps in reducing inflammation and also in arthritis and heart disease.

5. Beet microgreens: These microgreens contain high Nitrates and Betalains which helps in anti-inflammation and improves heart health.

6. Wheatgrass microgreens: These microgreens are rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. These compounds are helpful in reducing inflammation and improve immune function, and also beneficial to conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Bowel disease.

7. Radish microgreens: These microgreens contain compounds Glucosinolates, which is found to have anti-cancer properties. They also contain high levels of vitamin C and other antioxidant, which help to reduce inflammation in the body.

However, certain variety of microgreens are not good may cause allergy and in tolerance. So, before consuming it is better consultant a Dietician to determine the appropriate amount and frequency of consumption.