Eating a handful of arugula (or rocket lettuce) before meals is said to help digestion better. This is a green vegetable with a slightly bitter and slightly spicy taste, often used in salads or side dishes. According to nutrition experts, this habit can bring certain benefits, but is not an alternative to a balanced diet.
Why can arugula vegetables support digestion?
arugula contains compounds that create a natural bitter taste. These compounds can stimulate the early stages of digestion, starting from when you look, smell or taste food.
According to nutritionist Katrina Cox (RD), USA, the digestive process does not only take place in the stomach but starts from the mouth. Sensitive signals can increase the secretion of saliva, stomach acid and digestive enzymes, helping the body decompose food more effectively.
Sharing the same view, expert Carlyne Remedios (RD), a nutritionist at JM Nutrition (Canada) said that bitter foods like arugula vegetables can help the body prepare for meals, thereby helping digestion more conveniently and improving the feeling of fullness after eating. However, she emphasized that this effect is usually mild and does not have a quick effect.
Effects on gut health
In addition to stimulating digestion, arugula vegetables can also support the intestines in many ways.
First, bitter compounds can affect bowel movements, helping food move through the digestive system more evenly. This effect is usually mild but can contribute to improving slow digestion.
Second, arugula belongs to the cruciferous group, containing glucosinolate. When chewed, this compound metabolizes into isothiocyanate, which is believed to support beneficial bacteria and limit harmful bacteria in the intestines. This can help maintain a balanced microbiome.
Third, some studies show that compounds in cruciferous vegetables can support the intestinal mucosal barrier, helping to protect the digestive system and reduce the risk of inflammation.
Should arugula be eaten before meals?
If you like arugula, eating a small amount before meals is a possible option to try. This is also a simple way to increase the amount of green vegetables in your daily diet.
However, experts note that the effectiveness of supporting digestion from this habit is usually not large. More important factors are still the overall diet and lifestyle.
Eating and drinking on time, chewing thoroughly, drinking enough water, supplementing enough fiber and controlling stress all play a greater role in maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Notes
Eating arugula before meals can support digestion at a mild level by stimulating enzymes and gastric juice. However, to improve digestion effectively, it is necessary to maintain a reasonable diet and lifestyle.
