Bearded dragons can eat a wide range of foods, but not all of them are safe. Some greens that are healthy for humans may contain toxins or chemicals harmful to your pet. This is why it’s crucial to know what you’re feeding your dragon and ensure its safety.
Turnip greens are an excellent choice for bearded dragons as they offer several nutritional benefits essential for your dragon’s well-being. The best part is that turnip greens are staple vegetables, meaning your dragon can eat them daily.
In this article, we’ll review turnip greens, their nutritional values, and the benefits they provide for your bearded dragon.
Are Turnip Greens Good For Bearded Dragons?
Turnips are a good source of calcium with low phosphorus, making them ideal for pets like bearded dragons that require substantial daily calcium for healthy bones. When the calcium content is higher than phosphorus, it helps prevent calcium depletion caused by phosphorus binding. This is crucial for maintaining your beardie’s bone health.
In the case of turnips, the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is 4.1:1, which is highly suitable for your pet. This favorable ratio promotes strong bones and overall health in bearded dragons.
The following is the nutrient content of turnip greens per 100 grams (3.5 ounces) according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA):
- Calories: 32
- Protein: 2.7 grams
- Fat: 0.4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6.2 grams
- Fiber: 3.2 grams
- Sugar: 0.9 grams
Vitamins:
- Vitamin A: 6740 IU
- Vitamin C: 30 mg
- Vitamin K: 592.4 mcg
- Vitamin E: 1.17 mg
- Thiamin (B1): 0.07 mg
- Riboflavin (B2): 0.08 mg
- Niacin (B3): 0.5 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.15 mg
- Folate (B9): 194 mcg
- Pantothenic (B5): 0.25 mg
Minerals:
- Calcium: 190 mg
- Iron: 1.5 mg
- Magnesium: 47 mg
- Phosphorus: 46 mg
- Potassium: 389 mg
- Sodium: 22 mg
- Zinc: 0.39 mg
- Copper: 0.14 mg
- Manganese: 0.48 mg
- Selenium: 0.2 mcg
6 Benefits of Turnip Greens for Bearded Dragons
Turnip greens are a nutritious addition to a bearded dragon’s diet. Understanding their benefits can help keep your pet healthy and happy. Here are six key advantages of including turnip greens in your beardie’s meals:
1. Reliable Staple Food
Turnip greens are one of the few staple vegetables recommended for bearded dragons. They provide essential nutrients, making them a reliable choice. However, it’s important not to rely solely on turnip greens, as a varied diet prevents your pet from becoming bored and losing interest in food.
2. Boosts Immune System
Rich in vitamins, turnip greens support your bearded dragon’s immune system. These nutrients strengthen antibodies, helping your pet to fight off infections more effectively. A strong immune system is crucial for overall health and faster recovery from illnesses.
3. Promotes Good Eyesight
Turnip greens are a good source of vitamin A, which is vital for maintaining healthy eyesight in bearded dragons. This vitamin helps protect the retina and ensures your pet can see well, especially in low-light conditions.
4. Supports Blood Clotting
Turnip greens are packed with vitamin K, calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium, all of which play crucial roles in blood clotting and platelet formation. Adequate intake of these nutrients helps your beardie heal more effectively from injuries, reducing the risk of complications like infections.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Turnip greens contain anti-inflammatory agents such as vitamins and flavonoids. These compounds help manage inflammation in case of injuries, promoting faster healing and minimizing discomfort for your pet.
6. Low in Oxalates
Turnip greens have low oxalate levels, which is beneficial for bearded dragons. High oxalate intake can bind with calcium, interrupting calcium absorption and further leading to metabolic bone disease and kidney stones. Including turnip greens in your pet’s diet reduces these risks, supporting stronger bones and overall health.
How to Prepare and Feed Your Bearded Dragon Turnip Greens
Preparing turnip greens for your bearded dragon involves a few essential steps. Proper preparation ensures your pet enjoys the greens safely and healthily. Here’s how to do it:
Wash the Greens Thoroughly
Start by washing the turnip greens to remove any pesticides or chemicals that may be present from farming. While your digestive system can handle these substances, your bearded dragon may struggle, potentially leading to health issues.
Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces
Next, cut the greens into manageable pieces for your beardie. Since bearded dragons have limited chewing ability, it’s crucial to ensure the pieces are small enough to swallow safely. A good guideline is to make each piece fit between your dragon’s eyes. This size helps prevent choking and makes the greens easier to eat.
Create a Special Beardie Salad
Bearded dragons enjoy variety in their diet. After preparing the turnip greens, mix them with other complementary ingredients to make a colorful salad. You can add non-staple veggies like carrots or bell peppers to stimulate your pet’s appetite.
Additionally, remember to include a source of protein, as bearded dragons require a balanced diet that meets their age-specific nutritional needs. For more details on what to feed your pet, refer to my article on the ultimate bearded dragon diet.
The table below shows the amount of protein and greens in a diet depending on your pet’s age:
| Age (months) | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 0 – 3 (Baby stage) | 30% greens, 70% grubs |
| 3 – 6 (Juvenile stage) | 30% greens, 70% grubs |
| 6 – 9 (Subadult stage) | 40% greens, 60% grubs |
| 9+ (Adult stage) | 70% greens, 30% grubs |
Should I Feed Cooked Turnip Greens to My Bearded Dragon?
It’s best to feed your bearded dragon uncooked turnip greens. Cooking them can deplete their nutrients, which goes against the goal of providing a nutritious diet. Always serve raw, finely chopped turnip greens to maximize nutritional benefits for your pet.
Other Staple Vegetables for Your Bearded Dragon
In addition to turnip greens, consider incorporating the following vegetables into your beardie’s diet. These can be mixed into a salad to add variety:
- Dandelion greens
- Mustard greens
- Butternut squash
- Collard greens
- Cactus pad
Each of these vegetables is packed with nutrients and offers different flavors and aromas that your bearded dragon will enjoy. Providing a variety of foods not only enhances their diet but also stimulates their mental engagement. Be mindful of the quantity and proportions to ensure your pet receives a balanced nutrient package appropriate for its age.
