Arugula - Not Just Good for Salad!

Arugula is known for as being a tangy salad green, but it is also a relative of the cruciferous family, which includes radishes, Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower and broccoli.   Like these foods, arugula has many highly beneficial nutrients that include anti-cancer compounds and carotenoid anti-oxidants that help eyesight.

These beneficial plant chemicals include flavonoids that improve blood vessel function, increase blood flow, lower blood pressure and lower inflammation. Arugula can also help to counteract the negative effects of heavy metals and helps eliminate pesticides from the body.

Research shows that the trace minerals and antioxidants arugula contains can block the absorption of environmental contaminants suspected of impacting your libido.

Arugula and Nitric Oxide

Arugula contains the highest levels of nitrates of any plant, and nitrates are used to produce nitric oxide (NO) in the body.    NO is a very important signaling molecule that supports healthy endothelial (blood vessal lining) function and protects the mitochondria of the cells. 

  

Arugula contains about 480 milligrams (mg) of nitrates per 100-gram serving compared to 281mg for rhubarb, cilantro at 247, and 110mg for beets.  Spinach also contains high levels as do all green leafy vegetables which is thought to be why their consumption helps prevent heart attacks, stroke and heart disease.

High Nitrate intake boosts NO directly.   NO relaxes and widens blood vessels dramatically increasing blood flow and oxygenation of your tissues.  This increases the body’s ability to carry away waste material and carbon dioxide.  A diet high in nitrates can help prevent and treat high blood pressure in this manner.

Although raw beets are the best-known vegetable for boosting NO, increasing circulation and lowering blood pressure arugula is the real king.

Nitrates, NO and Exercise Capacity and Endurance

Nitrate intake and increased NO in the body has been proven to dramatically increase exercise capacity and endurance, and the drug Viagra functions by boosting NO levels which is the drug treatment for male impotence.  So a healthier heart, lower blood pressure and increased exercise capacity are not the only reasons to increase your intake of Arugula!