Arugula is from the cruciferous family, as are broccoli , cabbage and Brussels sprouts . It, like other leafy vegetables, is rich in nitrates - more than 250 mg per 100 g of vegetables.
High levels of dietary nitrates have been linked to lower blood pressure . They also reduce the amount of oxygen needed during exercise. In this way, sports performance is improved.
The amount of two cups of arugula contains 1 g of protein , 0.3 g of fat and 1.5 g of carbohydrates - including 0.6 g of fiber and 0.8 g of sugar. Consumption of this amount of vegetables provides 20% of the required daily vitamin A , over 50% of vitamin K and 8% of the required daily amount of vitamin C , folic acid and calcium .
Arugula is among the 20 foods with the highest nutrient content with the fewest calories .
Consumption of leafy vegetables has long been associated with a reduced risk of developing colon and lung cancer. Recent studies have shown that the compound sulforaphane in these vegetables, in addition to giving them a bitter taste, has anti-cancer properties.
Scientists have found that said compound can inhibit the enzyme histone deacetylase , which is involved in the development of cancer cells.
Arugula also contains chlorophyll . It effectively blocks the carcinogenic effect of heterocyclic amines, which are formed when cooking food at very high temperatures.