An apple a day may indeed keep the doctor away, but a cup of leafy green vegetables every day could boost muscle function. Excuse the lack of rhyme, but at least the latter claim has new research behind it.
According to the study from Edith Cowan University, published in the Journal of Nutrition, people who consumed a nitrate-rich diet — predominantly from vegetables — had significantly better muscle function of their lower limbs (take that, leg day!).
And yes, this is improved muscle function is independent of any physical activity according to lead researcher Dr Marc Sim. As for what green leafy veggies you should be consuming? The greatest health benefits come from lettuce, spinach, kale and even beetroot.
The new green trend on the block that can have up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts? Microgreens — the seedlings of leafy greens, vegetables and herbs. Studies have found that they have “considerably higher concentrations” of vitamins and carotenoids — the latter which is great for eye health and cardiovascular health.
As for the vitamins these microgreens produce? Vitamin C, vitamin K1 and vitamin E — full of antioxidants, helpful for bone health and organ function. And they’re colourful on your plate, aromatic, intense to taste and they come in an array of textures.
The aforementioned Dr Sim has informed us that “Less than one in ten Australians eat the recommended five to six serves of vegetables per day.” He suggests eating a variety of vegetables every day — and yes, one of those servings should be your greens.
If you’re looking to add microgreens into your day-to-day diet, or even how to grow microgreens, well, Micropod has simplified the process for you — as growing them yourself can take time, knowledge and conditions beyond your capability.
But the unique, sustainable hydroponic kit means all you have to add is add water — and wait a week or two before getting your crunch on.
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