In today’s health conscious world, incorporating nutrient-dense foods into our diets has become increasingly challenging and important. Red cabbage microgreens are gaining popularity with researchers and health enthusiasts alike, as this nutritional powerhouse is one of the most well-researched microgreens, and boasts impressive and promising documented benefits.
Red cabbage microgreens’ impressive nutritional profile includes vitamins A, C, E, and K, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients—a true superfood. They are low in calories and carbohydrates, and offer an abundance of health-boosting properties. Join us as we explore the incredible potential of red cabbage microgreens and learn how to easily reap their numerous rewards.
Color and Taste
These cabbage microgreens may be called “red,” but we can see they’re actually more of a purple—a rare color for microgreens (only found in other brassicas like radish, mustard and kohlrabi). If you enjoy adult red cabbage in your salad or wraps, you’ll enjoy its microgreens counterpart, too. They are sweet and crunchy, with a milder taste than adult cabbage. Tender and flavorful, they also boast a variety of flavor profiles, depending on growing method.
Red Cabbage Health Benefits
Similar to both radish and broccoli microgreens, red cabbage is also part of the Brassica family.
Phytonutrients: Also known as phytochemicals, are natural compounds found in plants. There are thousands of different kinds of phytonutrients. Below are three of the most prominent that are found in red cabbage microgreens.
- Anthocyanins: Anthocyanins give red cabbage its signature color (similar to blueberries and wine), but they also lend it a lot of health benefits that scientists are very interested in. Anthocyanins have antioxidant properties, which help the body fight oxidative stress and even some chronic diseases, like heart disease and obesity. These compounds have been associated with reduced cholesterol levels and improved overall cardiovascular health.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids are another group of phytonutrient compounds found in red cabbage microgreens. Two well-researched compounds that fall under this category are kaempferol and quercetin. These compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Glucosinolates: Red cabbage microgreens contain potent compounds called glucosinolates. When glucosinolates break down, they form different compounds like isothiocyanates and sulforaphane, a potent activator of the Nrf2 pathway.
Nrf2: The Nrf2 pathway (pronounced nerf-too) is important for the regulation of genes that help with detoxification. This pathway refers to the steps that need to be taken to activate the protein Nrf2.
Picture your body as an orchestra, each different cell or system representing an instrument, with Nrf2 as the conductor.
When there's trouble brewing, like when you're exposed to toxins or stress, Nrf2 steps up as the conductor. It starts waving its baton (which in this case is like sending signals) and instructs each section of the orchestra to play their part in harmony.
Just like how the conductor guides the musicians to play the right notes at the right time, Nrf2 directs your cells to produce antioxidants and other protective molecules. These are like the melodies and harmonies that keep the music (or in this case, your body) sounding and feeling healthy.
Digestive system support: With their high fiber content, red cabbage microgreens promote a healthy digestive system, and can help regulate bowel movements, improve gut health, and prevent constipation.
Boosted immune system: Loaded with immune-boosting vitamins C and A, red cabbage microgreens can strengthen your body's defense mechanisms by enhancing immune responses, which helps ward off illnesses and infections.
Nutrition: Red cabbage microgreens are 20-25% protein and low in fat, calories and carbohydrates. They are rich in Vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with an array of B vitamins such as thiamin, niacin, and folate; they also contain essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, and are loaded with beneficial phytochemicals.
Red cabbage microgreens are a nutritional treasure trove that can significantly enhance your well-being. Their remarkable nutritional profile, combined with their potential cardiovascular health benefits make them the perfect add on to any meal.
Want all the benefits of red cabbage microgreens but don’t know where to buy them? Don’t worry, we have you covered with the first freeze-dried red cabbage microgreens product in the US: Cabbage Booster. US grown, washed, dried, lab tested and hand packed in Colorado to ensure the highest quality possible. 1-2 teaspoons per day, on any meal is all you need. Enjoy!
