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More on Appropriate Vegetables and Greens

Due to the varying levels of proteins, vitamin, minerals, oxalates and goitrogens in different vegetables and greens it is necessary to offer a wide variety to maintain an adequate nutritional balance. High calcium with a low phosphorus, oxalate and goitrogen content is the ideal. As there are very few of these "ideal" vegetables and greens, offering a varying diet of commonly acceptable choices is the best approach and healthiest option for your dragon.
The most commonly discussed issues in regards to vegetables and greens are, calcium content, phosphorus content, the calcium to phosphorus ratio, oxalates and goitrogens. Below is a brief and simple explanation of why.

Oxalic Acids

Oxalates and Oxalic Acids are found in most foods to one degree or another but are predominant and naturally occurring in several vegetables, fruits and greens. Oxalic acid "binds" with many nutrients and minerals in the body (especially calcium) and forms less soluble salts known as oxalates. The result of this "binding" renders the nutrient or mineral non-absorbable by the body.

Goitrogens

Goitrogens are compounds that bind iodine, preventing the body from utilizing it and are found naturally in some vegetables and greens. Iodine is important in the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which in turn has an effect on skin production and shedding, regulating metabolism, energy and activity levels, growth, and temperament.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is an essential mineral that is required by every cell in the body for normal function and is a major structural component of bone as well as serving many other functions. Approximately 85% of the body's phosphorus is found in bone.

Calcium

Calcium is the most common mineral found in the body. The majority of the calcium in the body is found in bones and teeth, while a small amount is found in the blood and soft tissue. The physiological functions of calcium are so vital to survival that the body will de -mineralize bone to maintain normal blood calcium levels when calcium intake is inadequate. Thus, adequate dietary calcium is a critical factor in avoiding issues such as metabolic bone disease (MBD).

Calcium/Phosphorus Ratio

This ratio simply means that for every gram of phosphorus ingested in the diet, the body must match that with another gram of calcium before the phosphorus can be absorbed through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream. If the required calcium is not available from the diet, the body will obtain it from wherever it can, such as from the storage depots in the bones. Most nutritionists recommend that the ideal levels are somewhere between 1.2-2 parts calcium to 1 part phosphorus.

Not all dragons will eat all types of greens and may pick through their food. For proper nutrition (and to prevent picky eaters) continue to offer dragons a varied mix as they often will acquire a taste over time.

Water

A small dish filled "knee high" with fresh water allows the dragon access to water to drink or lounge in. Some dragons do not "drink" much water as much of their supply comes from their vegetables, greens and live prey. It is not necessary with a proper diet but it never hurts to provide it. Soiled water should be changed immediately.

Vegetables and Greens

In addition to live prey, bearded dragons require fresh greens and vegetables as part of a their daily feeding schedule. Vegetables/greens are best provided every morning and placed in the cool side of the enclosure. Misting the veg/greens may keep it fresher a bit longer and provides additional moisture. If necessary and depending on the particular dragon veg/greens can be offered again in the afternoon. A small amount of leftover fresh veg/greens left until the next morning will not cause any harm and will attract any stray, hidden, hungry crickets. Tear or cut in manageable pieces appropriate for the size of the dragon and offer a wide variety to provide the best overall protein, mineral and vitamin content. Young juveniles may initially express little interest in veg/greens but they should be provided regardless, as they will eventually eat them. Adults generally require less protein and more veg/greens so their feeding schedule should be adjusted accordingly.

Commonly Accepted Vegetables and Greens

Collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, watercress, endive, cactus pad, red and green peppers, carrot (shredded), acorn and butternut squash, kale, parsley, parsnip, radish greens, snow peas, green beans and radicchio are some of the locally available fresh greens and vegetables we rotate weekly. There is some debate as to the use of romaine lettuce and spinach but we do use both on occasion as an addition to a varied mix.