Mustard greens like other green veggies such as arugula, asparagus, cilantro, wheatgrass, kale, parsley, and turnip green are a rich source of many vital nutrients, these leafy greens are packed with Vitamins C and A, Calcium, Fiber, and minerals that contribute to overall health in humans as well as in some exotic pets. If you are the owner of guinea pigs, then you must be wondering how to feed mustard greens to your cavies to keep them healthy and happy. Here the question arises;
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Mustard Greens?
The answer is yes, but with caution and moderation as a key like any other new food. While mustard greens are a healthy addition to your guinea pigs’ diet, some guinea pigs may not take an immediate liking to the strong flavor which can cause digestive issues. In this full guide, we’ll discover the nutritional benefits, potential risks, and the proper way to introduce mustard greens to your guinea pig’s diet. Let’s first understand that what are the nutritional requirements of guinea pigs before introducing any new food in their diet.
Understanding the Guinea Pigs Nutritional Requirements:
Guinea pigs, being picky eater, and introducing something new in their diet require good care and patience from their owners. Guinea pigs are herbivores, which means, they require plant-based nutrients, materials, and fibers. A well-balanced and suitable diet to get proper nutrition, especially Vitamin C that is not self-produced by guinea pigs is very important, which is achieved by fresh, high-quality hay, vegetables, fruits, some small quantity of pellets, and most importantly fresh drinking water with moderation.
Guinea pigs, from a nutritional viewpoint, require Vitamin C in their diet very crucially for wound healing, collagen biosynthesis, and bone growth. Therefore, guinea pigs require proper care when introducing new food like mustard greens to achieve nutritional requirements.
As a responsible pet owner, you may find yourself wondering about the inclusion of mustard greens in their meals. So, let’s first quickly go through the types and percentages of nutrients available in mustard greens to understand the nutritional requirements of guinea pigs.
Nutritional Facts and Analysis of Mustard Greens, Raw:
Mustard greens, peppery testing greens belong to the family of mustard plant (Brassica juncea) and also includes kale, collard green, broccoli, and cauliflower, Mustard greens are also known as brown mustard, vegetable mustard, Indian mustard, and Chinese mustard. It is one of the most nutritious foods your guinea pigs can enjoy and provides many benefits to them. Mustard greens are low in calories yet high in fiber and many vital vitamins and minerals. In precise, they’re an admirable source of vitamins C and K for guinea pigs. Here are the nutritional values and percentages per 100 grams of mustard greens, raw;
| Nutrients | Value per 100 grams | DV % |
| Energy | 27 kcal | – |
| Carbohydrates | 4.7 grams | 2 % |
| Water | 90.70 grams | – |
| Fat | 0.4 grams | 1 % |
| Protein | 2.9 grams | 6 % |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 gram | 11 % |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 70 mg | 78 % |
| Vitamin K | 257.5 µg | 215 % |
| Vitamin A, RAE | 151 µg | 17 % |
| Calories | 27 kcal | |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0 % |
| Calcium, Ca | 115 mg | 9 % |
| Phosphorus, P | 58 mg | 5 % |
| Sugar | 1.32 grams | – |
| Potassium, K | 384 mg | 8 % |
| Iron, Fe | 1.6 mg | 9 % |
| Magnesium, Mg | 32 mg | 8 % |
| Zinc, Zn | 0.25 mg | 2 % |
| Sodium, Na | 20 mg | 1 % |
| Ash | 1.36 grams | – |
| Copper, Cu | 0.17 mg | 19 % |
| Folate | 12 mcg | 3 % |
Note: * The % Daily Value (DV) indicates how much a nutrient in a serving of food subsidizes a daily diet.
Benefits of Nutrients Available in Mustard Greens for Guinea Pigs:
There are numerous health benefits associated with mustard greens, let’s understand the powerhouse of mustard greens;
Low in fats and Calories: Almost 27 kcal and 0.4g fats are present in mustard greens, making it a beneficial diet for guinea pigs. This will ensure that there is no risk of obesity and weight gain for guinea pigs and blood vessels are much stronger along with a good cardiovascular system.
Fibers: Mustard greens contain almost 3.2g of fats making it a good option in terms of digestion. This will help in good digestion of guinea pigs and it will also be safe from any kind of digestive issue like indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach upset.
Vitamin C: Mustard greens have almost 70mg of vitamin C an essential component for guinea pigs’ health because, like humans, guinea pigs can not produce their vitamin C, so they require an external source to get Vit C. Vitamin C helps guinea pigs safe from a dangerous disease like scurvy.
Low in Sugar: Mustard greens have 1.32g of sugar, which is not excessive for guinea pigs, making it a better option than other leafy veggies.
Calcium: Mustard greens contain 115mg of calcium i.e. 9 % per 100 g of mustard greens. It is very helpful in bone development and stronger teeth in guinea pigs if fed in moderation. Calcium also helps in the forming of strong bone tissues and supports blood clotting and muscle function. Excessive amount of calcium is deposited in guinea pigs, which can lead to urinary issues. It is recommended that always go for moderation while giving any food.
Vitamin A: Mustard greens have 151 µg Vit A, i.e. 17 % of 100g. It is an essential element as an antioxidant for maintaining healthy skin, vision, kidneys, heart, and immune function. It also promotes the growth and development of bones in guinea pigs.
Folate (Vitamin B9): Mustard greens have 12 µg folate which plays a key role in cell division and the formation of DNA. It also supports the production of red blood cells in Guinea pigs.
Vitamin K: Almost 257.5 µg, i.e. 215 % is present in mustard greens which is essential for blood clotting, preventing excessive bleeding in guinea pigs. It also supports bone health and regulates calcium levels.
Iron: Almost 1.6mg, i.e. 9 % present in mustard greens. It is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood. It supports overall energy levels and prevents anemia in Guinea pigs.
Potassium: 384 mg is present in 100 grams of mustard greens. It regulates fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. It also supports heart health by maintaining proper blood pressure in guinea pigs.
Although nutrients provide numerous benefits for mustard greens for guinea pigs, the principle of moderation is still necessary when offering mustard greens to guinea pigs. Introducing mustard greens slowly is vital to measure their acceptance and prevent digestive issues or any risk factors.
Health Benefits of Mustard Greens to Guinea Pigs:
As we know now, Mustard greens are a rich source of many nutrients, vitamins, and minerals for guinea pigs’ overall health and well-being. Here are some of the health benefits for guinea pigs after feeding mustard greens to them in moderation.
Support Heart function: like other green veggies, mustard greens also play an important role in the heart well well-being and reduce heart disease risks. It contains vitamin K which helps in blood clotting and good function of the heart. Mustard greens are loaded with antioxidants fighting against heart disease. It is also found in one review of eight studies that, this family of mustard greens (Brassica vegetables) has reduced 15 % risk of heart disease.
Good for Eye Health: Mustard green contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are good for eye health. These antioxidants also protect against age-related muscular degeneration which leads to cause of blindness.
Boost Immunity: Mustard greens improve the immune system in Guinea pigs through Vitamin C presence. Additionally, vitamin A also supports the immune system of guinea pigs present in mustard greens by promoting the growth and distribution of T cells, which are also known as white blood cells, to fight potential infections in the guinea body.
Anti-Cancer Fighting: Mustard greens have antioxidants, which have anticancer effects. The high amount of glucosinolates helps to protect against DNA damage and prevent the growth of cancerous cells.
Risks of feeding Mustard greens excessively to Guinea Pigs:
Calcium Oxalate Bladder Stones: Mustard greens contain oxalates, which can bind with calcium, forming crystals that may lead to bladder stones. Control the portion size of high-oxalate foods, including mustard greens. Ensure your guinea pig has access to fresh water to promote urinary tract health.
Digestive Upset: Excessive intake of mustard greens may cause digestive issues due to excessive fiber intake present in mustard greens, including diarrhea or bloating. Introduce new foods gradually and monitor your guinea pig’s reactions.
Allergic Reactions: In some rare cases, guinea pigs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain foods, including mustard greens. Introduce new foods gradually and observe for any signs of allergic reactions, such as itching or respiratory issues. Consult with a veterinarian if you suspect an allergy.
Urinary complications: Calcium in mustard green if fed excessively can accumulate in guinea pigs’ bodies, which may cause urinary complications in guinea pigs which is very painful for them, that is only removed by surgical operation.
Frequency and Serving Size of Mustard Greens for Guinea Pigs:
With specific dietary requirements, guinea pigs need proper care and treatment when introducing any new food including mustard greens. It is best recommended that serve in moderation and gradually.
As we know many nutrients available in mustard greens like calcium, fiber, etc., and their excessive intake can lead to severe health issues for guinea pigs. Being a responsible owner, you must pay proper attention to the frequency and size of servings of mustard greens to guinea pigs for overall health.
It is suggested by experts that, a whole leaf or a half part of leaf is well enough serving size to feed the piggies 1-2 times per week. Baby guinea pigs (pups) who are above 6 months may be served with fresh, micro leaves once or twice a week, but less than 6-month pups are not recommended to be served with mustard greens as they can intake much more calcium than adult guinea pigs.
What Parts and Types of Mustard Greens Can Guinea Pigs Eat?
Being human, we think about what part and type of food is good and safe to eat for us, just like guinea pigs are picky eaters and require acceptance of any new food. Green leaves in mustard greens are the main part to eat, mixed with other varieties of veggies or prepared as a treat. However, let’s know if the other parts of mustard greens like stem, flowers, seeds, and cooked or processed mustard greens are safe to feed to guinea pigs or not but before that is it safe to feed mustard greens to guinea pigs as a daily staple?
Can Guinea pigs Eat mustard greens? (As a Daily Staple)
Obviously No! feeding mustard greens daily to guinea pigs is not recommended at all. Always remember, do not replace their primary diet like fresh and high-quality hay with any kind of other food including mustard greens. Serve them 1-2 times a week to avoid any digestive issues.
Mustard Greens Stem: Yes, Guinea pigs can eat stems of mustard greens in moderation, rich in fiber and vitamin C to boost the health system of guinea pigs. You should give care while offering stems of mustard greens to avoid excessive intake by guinea pigs. Wash them before serving to remove pesticides and chemicals and also Observe and monitor the reaction if they like it or not.
Mustard Greens Flowers: Yes, mustard green flowers are safe to feed your cavies with moderation, rich in Vit C, A, Iron, anti-oxidants, and potassium playing an essential role in the well-being of guinea pigs. These flowers may be used with other veggies like arugula flowers, and collard greens flowers as a treat.
Mustard Greens Grass: Yes, mustard greens grass also known as wild mustard is safe to feed to guinea pigs with moderation. Before offering wash them properly to avoid any chemicals or pesticides in the guinea pig’s diet. Avoid feeding excessively, and observe the reaction of guinea pigs for any behavioral change or reaction.
Curly Mustard Greens: Absolutely yes, curly mustard greens are safe to feed your cavies with moderation. Curly mustard greens are also known as mustard spinach commonly found in most stores. You may also add them as a treat before washing them in running water like a single leaf per serving.
Cooked or Processed Mustard greens: No, you must avoid feeding any type of cooked or processed food to guinea pigs including mustard greens, because cooked or processed food contains certain salt, seasoning, oil, spices, or chemicals that would be harmful to guinea pigs’ health causing digestive issues like stomach upset, diarrhea, etc.
Canned Mustard greens: No, do not feed your cavies canned mustard greens to avoid digestion complications, as canned mustard greens contain additives, syrups, chemicals seasonings, etc. that are not good for guinea pigs to intake for their health and well-being.
How to introduce mustard greens first time into guinea pigs’ diet?
You can combine mustard greens with other guinea-friendly veggies to create a treat and enticing meal for your cavies. But remember to give in moderation, slowly and gradually to avoid overfeeding and to maintain nutritional balance.
Watch out for the signs of likes or dislikes by guinea pigs while eating mustard greens for the first time. If your guinea pig is not accepting mustard greens and dislikes it, then you can reassess the mustard greens with other veggies alternates.
You may also chop or slice mustard green leaves into small pieces in the start, and feed them with your hand or lap as a treat and enjoy your furry friend’s enjoyment.
Alternatives to Mustard Greens for Guinea Pigs:
If suppose, your guinea pigs do not like and accept the mustard greens in their diet, do not worry at all there are other veggies to be served in moderation for a healthy life.
There must be variety, particularly in fresh fruits and veggies for guinea pigs to obtain desired nutrients, you can try these healthier options also as an alternative to guinea pigs’ diet:
| Cabbage | Tomato | Green beans, raw |
| Collard greens | Celery | Basil |
| Romaine Lettuce (Avoid Icebergs) | Asparagus, raw | Sweet Potato |
| Broccoli, raw | Beet | Artichoke |
| Brussel sprouts | Carrot | Snap pea |
| Kale, raw | Bell pepper | Cilantro |
| Arugula, raw | Watercress | Romaine |
| Parsley | Zucchini | Spinach |
| Dandelion greens, raw | Chicory greens, raw | Turnip greens, raw |
| Beet greens, raw | Wheatgrass | Butternut Squash |
Always remember, moderation is the key to serving these veggies including mustard greens for better health of guinea pigs. Consulting with a professional or experienced veterinarian or animal behavioralist for further guidance is a good step you must follow for the betterment of your lovely pet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Are there any vegetables guinea pigs should avoid entirely?
Yes, some vegetables, such as onions, iceberg lettuce, avocado, leeks, shallots, chives, rhubarb, and garlic, should be avoided due to potential health risks.
Can I mix mustard greens with other vegetables in the same meal?
Yes, combining mustard greens with other guinea pig-friendly vegetables and making a salad enhances their meal variety but make sure you know the nutritional quantity of each veggie you are adding as a treat. Make sure to add in moderation and gradually feeding to guinea pigs will boost the nutritional requirements for Guinea pigs.
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