In the work I do, people often tell me that they want to truly feel their best. They also tell me they want to be educated about how various foods affect their body and how to use them to their advantage.

Enter one of the most powerful foods on the planet: MICRO GREENS. Sometimes referred to as sprouts (which have a slightly longer grow time), these baby herbs are a nutritional powerhouse. Although they are physically smaller than a mature vegetable green, micro greens contain the highest nutrient levels because their vitamin, mineral, polyphenol, and antioxidant content is concentrated! One study found that levels in microgreens were 40 times higher than mature leaves.

Most micro green varieties are rich in Potassium, Iron, Zinc, Magnesium and Copper. These minerals are crucial for our health, considering the Standard American Diet is greatly lacking. Recent research suggests that Kale sprouts show significant anti-canter potential. They are also packed with Vitamin C, helping keep the immune system healthy and stimulating collagen production. Broccoli sprouts have been found to help detoxify environmental pollutants, and eliminate potential carcinogens from the body. The baby sprouts are far more potent than actual broccoli!

Additional studies have found that these mini greens and their polyphenols lowered the risk of heart disease and levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol. They have also been linked to lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, Diabetes and certain cancers. Spouts and micro greens are powerful champions of health and longevity.

Micro greens are versatile. They can be eaten raw, juiced or blended and I can’t wait to see what Chef Lauren does with them!

I want to send a heartfelt thank you to Planted Table for seeking out this powerful, nutritional gift for all of us to enjoy. Thank you so much for taking action and keeping our health and wellness (and taste!) a priority.

Planted Table is proud to be working with Oakland-based, Tierra Urbana to source our organic Micro Greens locally. Learn more at tierraurbana-oakland.com.