Nutrient-packed green may help fight cancer and protect kidneys

Arugula, often overlooked in favour of more popular leafy greens, is a powerhouse of nutrition with potential health benefits.

Is there a readily available, affordable food that both fights cancer and supports kidney health? The answer is yes! Arugula, a nutrient-rich leafy green with a bold flavour, is packed with benefits, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

You’ve likely seen arugula in your local grocery store, either bagged or in bunches in the produce section. Like other leafy greens, arugula is full of vitamins and minerals. According to Kathleen Benson, a Registered Dietitian with Top Coaching Nutrition, arugula's key nutrients for cancer prevention and kidney health include high levels of glucosinolates and low levels of potassium.

So, what exactly are glucosinolates? Benson explained that these compounds have been linked to cancer-fighting properties. Specifically, she noted that glucosinolates help protect against DNA damage and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. While Benson acknowledged that the evidence isn't yet strong enough to conclusively prove that glucosinolates reduce cancer risk in humans, she strongly advocates for including arugula in a cancer-prevention-focused diet based on overall healthy lifestyle choices.

Benson's endorsement of arugula’s anti-cancer potential is supported by other health experts. A 2022 article from the National Cancer Institute recommends adding cruciferous vegetables, such as arugula, to your diet, although the direct link between these vegetables and reduced cancer risk in humans has not been fully proven. Like Kathleen Benson, Natalie Rizzo, a registered dietitian writing for Today, approaches the connection between arugula and reduced cancer risk with a cautious yet optimistic outlook.

Rizzo explains, "Animal studies do not always translate human results and more research is necessary to know the full impact of these plant compounds on human health." Does this mean you should wait for more studies before adding arugula to your diet? Not necessarily. Arugula offers a range of other nutritional benefits that make it a valuable part of a healthy diet. As Medical News Today reports, arugula is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and calcium, which can support overall health and contribute to cancer prevention.

The Cleveland Clinic also acknowledges that maintaining a healthy diet is key to minimizing cancer risk. In terms of kidney health, arugula’s low potassium content makes it a good choice for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Medical News Today points out that those with CKD are often advised to limit high-potassium vegetables, but arugula’s lower potassium level means it’s typically safe for people managing kidney issues.

By Naila Huseynova