Autophagy, yes that subject we talk about everyday. Wait, what? So what are we talking about? Let’s look at what it
is, why we want it and how can we make it happen. Autophagy is a “process by which a cell breaks down and
destroys old, damaged, or abnormal proteins and other substances in its cytoplasm (the fluid inside a cell). The
breakdown products are then recycled for important cell functions, especially during periods of stress or starvation.”
Basically its recycling of old cells, in with the new and out with the old. Why is it necessary or even healthy to do on a
regular basis?
The benefits of autophagy are as simple as why we take out the trash. We don’t want old cells or debris hanging
around because they take up space, prevent us from making healthy cells and obstruct normal functions. This is
especially important when we are talking about brain cells (think dementia and Alzheimer’s) and heart cells (think
heart disease and atherosclerosis). As important, autophagy can stimulate the immune system which could be a benefit in fighting covid, infections or more importantly resolving symptoms of long covid. Sounds great but how do we get there? Hard exercise training does induce autophagy which is great for individuals who can do this. Intermittent fasting, especially 16-24 hours, is an excellent way to stimulate autophagy. An in depth subject for another time. So what does this have to do with microgreens? Well, sulforaphane is a phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and kale. It has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, similar to curcumin. Studies have shown that sulforaphane increases autophagy within brain cells.
Lucky for you Farm Doc Microgreens grows all these varieties and microgreens have been shown to have higher amounts of this phytonutrient than the mature component. Looking to super-charge your body in 2023 including cleaning out the “garbage”? Farm Doc Microgreens is here to help!