Can Bearded Dragons Eat Broccoli?

As a kid, you may have heard, “You need to eat your broccoli!” Turns out, broccoli is highly nutritious not only for us humans, but also our reptile friends. Yes, bearded dragons can eat broccoli, but it should be offered in moderation and prepared appropriately. Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that can be included as part of a varied diet for your bearded dragon. 

Here are some guidelines to keep in mind when feeding broccoli to your bearded dragon: 

Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. You can include both the florets and the stems, as both parts are safe for consumption. 

Broccoli should be considered a treat and not a primary food source. Bearded dragons require a balanced diet that includes a variety of insects, leafy greens, and other vegetables. 

Broccoli contains oxalates, which are compounds that can interfere with calcium absorption in reptiles. High levels of oxalates can contribute to metabolic bone disease in bearded dragons. To mitigate this, avoid feeding large amounts of high-oxalate vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and kale and opt for low-oxalate greens like collard greens and mustard greens more often. 

Don't rely solely on broccoli as a vegetable source. It's important to provide a variety of vegetables and greens to ensure a well-rounded diet. 

Since broccoli contains some oxalates, it's a good idea to balance it with calcium-rich foods. You can dust the broccoli with a calcium supplement before offering it to your bearded dragon. This helps counteract any potential calcium-binding effects of oxalates.

Pay attention to your bearded dragon’s reaction to broccoli. As with any new food, introduce broccoli slowly and monitor your bearded dragon for any signs of digestive upset or adverse reactions. 

Remember that bearded dragons have specific dietary requirements, and their diet should be well-balanced to promote their overall health. If you have concerns about your bearded dragon's diet or health, consider consulting with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care.

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While fresh vegetables and fruits are a nice supplement, the heart of your bearded dragon’s diet should be nutritious live feeder insects like Dubia roaches, mealworms, BSF larvae, and more. Luckily for you, and your beardie, ABDragons is a one-stop shop for all of your feeder insect needs. Count on ABDragons for reliable delivery and high-quality live insects.

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