The presence of vitamin K in arugula gives an anti-inflammatory boost to your body. To add to this, vitamin K spurs osteotropic activity in cells, helping bone formation. Furthermore, the gradual degradation of neural pathways, found in conditions such as Alzheimer’s, can be slowed down by an increase in vitamin K intake.
2. Detoxifies Body
Arugula is a fantastic source of antioxidants and it can greatly increase a person’s ORAC value (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which is a method for measuring antioxidant capacities. Antioxidants help to maintain a healthy balance of enzyme reactions within cells, while actively seeking out and destroying disease-causing free radicals that can attack your system. Antioxidants also work to bolster your defenses against simple illnesses such as the common cold, as well as more complex afflictions such as heart disease, cancer, and premature aging.
3. Boosts Immune System
Arugula is full of vitamins and minerals that help to bolster the defenses of the body’s immune system. For example, the copper in the arugula helps to stimulate the creation of white blood cells. Vitamin C is one of the best defenses for your body to seek out dangerous, inflammatory free radicals and destroy them before they can cause some real damage. This vitamin is found in large quantities in arugula, and it helps to prevent cancer and gives an extra boost to your immune system.
The phytochemicals found in large quantities in arugula inhibit the activity of cancer-causing cells. These phytochemicals are substances such as indoles, thiocyanates, or sulforaphane that are effective at countering cancer-causing processes in the body. Studies have shown that these compounds are great at helping to fight breast, cervical, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancers.
5. Increases Metabolism
The presence of B-Complex vitamins helps to increase metabolism. Arugula contains eight B vitamins which aid in different cell activities, including fat synthesis, energy production, the production of red blood cells, and many other vital processes for cell and metabolic health.
6. Improves Eyesight
Arugula is a great source of carotenoids, which are naturally occurring pigments that improve a person’s ability to see. In fact, carotenoids slow down the process of macular degeneration, which is when the center of a person’s field of vision becomes compromised. In the majority of cases, this causes cataracts, which then have to be removed. By increasing the volume of carotenoids in your diet, you may be able to slow down this classic symptom of old age.
7. Increases Mineral Absorption
Arugula contains a very low level of oxalates when compared to other leafy vegetables such as spinach. Oxalates inhibit the absorption of minerals by the body, which is counterproductive to consuming minerals in the same bite. Therefore, minerals such as copper and iron, which you get from the plant, are more easily absorbed by the body for efficient use.
Source: organicfacts
Images: depositphotos