Microgreens are loaded with health benefits. Each variety has a different nutritional benefit, but they are generally a great source of minerals, antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They frequently contain higher vitamins, minerals, and vitamin levels than their full-grown leaves. Researches comparing microgreens with the developed greens reports that these nutrition contents in microgreens can be up to multiple times higher than those found in developed greens. One examination estimated nutrient contents in 25 microgreens varieties. These levels were then contrasted with levels recorded in the USDA National Nutrient Database in developed leaves. These levels in microgreens were up to 30 times higher than those recorded for more developed leaves.

Eating vegetables is connected to a lower incidence of various illnesses. This is most likely because of the higher concentration of nutrients, minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins. They may also lessen the chances of the various illnesses:

• Heart ailments: Microgreens are rich in polyphenols, a class of antioxidants connected to a lower hazard of coronary illness. Studies show that microgreens may reduce triglycerides and "harmful" LDL cholesterol levels.

• Alzheimer's: Antioxidant-rich diet, including those containing higher polyphenols, might be connected to a lower incidence of Alzheimer's sickness.

• Diabetes: Antioxidants help reduce the stress that can keep sugar from entering cells. Tests have shown fenugreek microgreens to improve cell sugar take-up by 25–44%.

• Cancer/Malignancies: Antioxidant-rich greens, particularly those rich in polyphenols, may bring down the probability of different types of cancer.

• Improve vision: Straining to see clearly? Up your greens in your diet, and definitely with Microgreens. They have lutein, a phytochemical that helps in improving one's vision. Various studies ratify that lutein in microgreens can assist your eyes in checking high-intensity light - which many of us (who work a lot on screens) will agree can cause headaches also.

• Ward off constipation: When consumed as part of a balanced diet, microgreens can aid in bowel movement. Constipation can be relieved by consuming any fiber.

• Prevention of digestive problems: Microgreens have a high "prebiotic" fiber content, which can help nourish the good bacteria in your gut. Gut Microbes, a peer-reviewed journal, backed this up: These "prebiotic" fibers promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

• Fortify immune system: This is extremely important, especially in the current pandemic environment. If you feel that you are coming under the weather, make a Microgreen salad for yourself. Any vegetable can be anti-inflammatory and have a beneficial impact on immunity. Microgreens, on the other hand, pack a lot of these nutrients into a small, easy-to-eat package.

Microgreens vs. sprouts

Microgreens grow in much more favorable conditions than sprouts. There's more exposure to sunlight and ventilation, and bacteria have a harder time establishing a foothold. Sprouts aren't allowed to grow into plants because they aren't given enough time. They're eaten as sprouted seeds, hence lack a wide range of nutrients only due to photosynthesis.

Moreover, we consume the whole sprout, while the microgreens are cut just above the soil level, and only the leaves are harvested. Sprouts, on the other hand, are less nutritious than microgreens and contain lesser fiber. Raw sprouts are even more dangerous to consume.

The bottom line

Microgreens are flavorful and can easily be incorporated into a diet in a variety of ways. They're extremely nutritious and can go a long way in building immunity and reduce the risk of many common modern-day ailments. Given that they are easy to grow at home, with LittleGIANT grow your greens kit, they are an especially cost-effective way to boost nutrient intake and immunity without having to purchase large quantities of vegetables. In a nutshell, they are a worthwhile addition to everyone's diet.

Anuj Malhotra, founder of LittleGIANT, is an IIT Kharagpur and Xavier's Institute of Management graduate. LittleGIANT has been Malhotra's brainchild and its portfolio constitutes multiple product ranges and varieties like edible flowers, microgreens and exotic vegetables, fruits, herbs and berries.

Since its inception six years ago, LittleGIANT, which mainly focused on the hotel industry, has constantly innovated with sustainable design and farming systems and delivery methods to boost healthy eating through simple and sustainable living. And, since the lockdown began in 2020, have been able to change the game with innovations in customer acquisition and a B2B to B2C shift that includes home delivery of home kits, subscription models on the lines of OTT platforms and home-delivered and retail ready, curated, healthy "super salads".