Hello, my dear friends! Today, I want to talk local shopping and one of my favorite superfoods: microgreens.
Living in Alberta, Canada, in the middle of February might make you think fresh, local greens are hard to come by. But that’s not the case! Every Saturday morning, if I’m in town, you’ll find me at the local farmer’s market, supporting our local growers and stocking up on nutrient-packed greens.
Among my favorites are microgreens, particularly from the Brassica family (cruciferous vegetables). These tiny greens pack a powerful nutritional punch, and I absolutely love their taste, texture, and benefits. Here are a few I picked up this week:
Micro Broccoli – Half gone before I even got home!
Kohlrabi Microgreens – I also love kohlrabi in its bulb form.
Baby Arugula – I can’t get enough of its peppery, slightly bitter taste.
Microgreens come in many varieties—radish, mustard greens, pepper cress, and even micro amaranth (though that one can be finicky to grow). The beauty of these greens lies in their incredible nutritional density.
Microgreens are often referred to as nutritional factories because they are densely packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some studies suggest that their nutrient density can be up to 40 times higher than their fully grown counterparts! That means a small handful of microgreens can provide the same level of nutrients as a large serving of mature vegetables.
One of the most powerful compounds found in microgreens—especially broccoli microgreens—is sulforaphane. Let’s dive into why this compound is so important for our health.
Sulforaphane is derived from glucoraphanin, a compound found in cruciferous vegetables. However, to activate sulforaphane, we need to chew the greens, breaking down the plant’s cell walls and releasing this powerful antioxidant. That’s why I always recommend eating microgreens raw—whether in salads, smoothies, or as a topping for meals.
So why is sulforaphane so important? Because it activates Nrf2, the master regulator of cellular health. Nrf2 plays a crucial role in:
Detoxification – Activates multiple pathways for cellular cleansing.
Antioxidant Defense – Helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
Cellular Repair – Supports mitochondrial function and cellular longevity.
Immune Support – Strengthens the body’s ability to fight off disease.
As many of you know, I am a passionate advocate for Nrf2 activation. In addition to consuming microgreens, I also support my cellular health with Nrf2-activating supplements. Combining both strategies ensures my body is in peak condition for detoxification, energy production, and overall well-being.
Eating nutrient-dense foods like microgreens is one of the best ways to support your health and longevity. By shopping locally, you not only nourish your body with the freshest ingredients, but you also support local farmers and sustainable food practices.
Watch this video from Dr. Silverman and consider incorporating microgreens into your meals. Your body—and your cells—will thank you!
For more health insights, visit my website and tune into my podcast at https://healthwithsveta.com/podcast
Wishing you all health, happiness, and vibrant energy!
Dr. Sveta Silverman