Arugula, also known as arugula, rocket and eruca, is an annual cruciferous plant that shares many of the beneficial properties of other crucifers - broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and more. The leaves are tender, with a spicy and slightly sour taste.
Among other green leafy vegetables, arugula contains high levels of natural nitrates , over 2.5 milligrams per gram of fresh mass. Eating foods rich in dietary nitrates have proven benefits for lowering blood pressure , while lowering the need for oxygen during exercise and improving athletic ability.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, 40 grams of fresh arugula contains nearly 10 calories , 1 gram of protein , 0.3 grams of fat and 1.5 grams of carbohydrates, of which 0.6 g are fiber and 0.8 g are sugars . Taking the same 40 grams provides the body with 20% of the required daily dose of vitamin A , over 50% of the required vitamin K and nearly 10% of the required vitamin C , folic acid and calcium .
Vegetables are suitable for consumption by most people, but are most useful for diabetics because they contain the powerful antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid . In Germany, the acid is prescribed as a dietary supplement in diabetes, has the properties to lower blood sugar levels ( glucose ), increase insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress associated with diabetic neuropathy . Recent studies have shown that the acid significantly reduces cell damage due to peripheral and autonomic neuropathy.
The ingredient is especially useful for bones - excellent levels of vitamin K improve bone health and strengthen the function of structural proteins from the bone matrix, increase the absorption of calcium and reduce its excretion in the urine.