Can bearded dragons eat cilantro
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Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cilantro

Cilantro is a unique herb that has a different flavor profile depending on who you ask. Some people state cilantro has a unique almost citrusy flavor that adds a fresh taste to many dishes, while others claim it tastes like soap. Regardless of your cilantro preferences this herb is readily available in most grocery stores and is easy to prepare so many wonder if bearded dragons can eat cilantro.

The short answer is yes, cilantro is healthy for bearded dragons to eat every day. Read below to see the full nutritional benefits and learn how to prepare and serve cilantro to your beardie.

Cilantro or Coriander

Both coriander and cilantro come from the same plant (coriandrum sativum), however depending on your location the terminology may be different.

In North America it's common to call the stem and leaves of the plant "cilantro" and the dried seeds "coriander". However, other regions of the world "coriander" is the name of the leaves and stem and the seeds are referred to as "coriander seeds". This article discusses the nutrition of the stem and leaves, not the dried seeds.

Cilantro Nutrition

Below is the reptile nutrition label for cilantro. We created this label using data provided by the USDA and other reputable sources.

Reptile Nutrition

CilantroPer 100g Serving
Core
Calories23Cal
Water Content92.21g
Carbohydrates3.67g
Total Carbohydrate3.67g
Fiber, total dietary2.8g
Sugars0.87g
Fat0.52g
Total Fat0.52g
Total saturated0.014g
16:00.012g
18:00.001g
Total monounsaturated0.275g
16:10.002g
18:10.273g
Total polyunsaturated0.04g
18:20.04g
Proteins2.13g
Protein2.13g
Minerals
Calcium, Ca67mg
Copper0.225mg
Iron1.77mg
Magnesium26mg
Manganese0.426mg
Phosphorus, P48mg
Potassium, K521mg
Selenium0.9μg
Sodium46mg
Zinc0.5mg
Vitamins
Vitamin A, IU6748IU
Vitamin A, RAE337μg
Alpha-carotene36μg
Beta Cryptoxanthin202μg
Beta-carotene3930μg
Lutein + Zeaxanthin865μg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)0.067mg
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)0.162mg
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)1.114mg
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)0.57mg
Vitamin B60.149mg
Vitamin B9 (Folate)62μg
Folate (from food)62μg
Folate (dietary equivalent)62μg
Vitamin C27mg
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)2.5mg
Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone)310μg
Choline12.8mg
Sterols
Phytosterols5mg
Beta-sitosterol2mg
Stigmasterol3mg
Other
Oxalates5mg
pH9
Nutrition Scores
Ca:P Ratio1.4:1
Ca:P RatingGood
Safe to FeedDaily
HealthinessVery healthy

Notes/Instructions: Wash thoroughly. Chop into small pieces.
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Cilantro Benefits

Cilantro is a healthy herb and has no major health concerns or risks making it a great choice for bearded dragons.

A Very Basic (pH) Food

Cilantro is considered very basic on the pH scale. This makes it a good food to serve with fruits and other foods which are acidic as it will help offset the acidity.

Rich in Nutrients, Low in Sugar

Cilantro has is rich in calcium and vitamin A, but low in phosphorus and sugar. This makes it a well-balanced and nutritious addition to any meal.

How to Feed Cilantro to Bearded Dragons

As previously stated, cilantro is a healthy and nutrition food. It is best served mixed with other foods and can be fed to bearded dragons once per day without any health concerns.

Cilantro Preparation

Use only fresh cilantro purchased from a local grocery store, farmer, or grown yourself. Thoroughly wash the cilantro to remove any loose debris or chemicals the herb may have come in contact with. Cut the cilantro into small pieces (no larger than the distance between your beardies eyes). Serve by mixing with other foods or sprinkling on top of a salad.

Cilantro Questions

Below are frequently ask questions owners ask about feeding cilantro to bearded dragons.

Is Cilantro Good for Bearded Dragons?
Yes, cilantro is a very healthy food for bearded dragons. It is rich in calcium and vitamin A, while low in phosphorus and sugars making it a well balanced herb with no major health risks.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cilantro Daily?
Yes, cilantro can be fed to bearded dragons once per day. It is considered basic on the pH scale, so it should be served with other fruits or vegetables to offset any bitterness.

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