Delicious, peppery watercress is a fantastic addition to salads, soups, and stews, but it isn’t just the taste that keeps us coming back for more. Watercress is a fantastic healthy vegetable that is packed full of benefits for the body. Interested in what they are? Read on to find out.
Full of nutrients
Watercress is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it a great healthy addition to any meal. It is extremely high in vitamin K, which is beneficial in the wound healing process as it aids in blood clotting. Its also a great source of calcium, which helps to regulate the body’s heartbeat, salt levels, blood pressure, and bone health. In fact, watercress is actually ranked number 1 on the CDC’s list of powerhouse fruit and vegetables– supplying at least 100% of nutrients per 100 calories.
Improves heart health
Watercress contains high levels of antioxidants- including carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein. These antioxidants are linked to lower blood pressure, lower risk of heart disease, and a lowered risk of heart attacks and strokes.
May improve eye health
The carotenoids and vitamin C in watercress can help to protect the eyes against blue light damage often caused by phone, tv, and laptop screens, and the sun. Blue light damage may lead to age-related vision degeneration and, in the long run, permanent vision loss. The carotenoids in watercress can also help to prevent cataracts and lower the risk of developing macular degeneration.
Supports bone health
Watercress is a great source of bone-benefiting minerals, such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Calcium is abundant in our bodies, and we must ensure this abundance is kept as it is used for keeping our teeth and bones strong. Magnesium and potassium both indirectly impact our bone health by positively affecting the growth of bone cells. Ensuring we consume enough of these minerals can help to reduce the risk of complications from bone-related maladies, such as osteoporosis and from aging.
Helps maintain a healthy immune system
100g of watercress contains more than half of our recommended daily allowance of vitamin A, which is essential for keeping the immune system strong and reducing inflammation. Vitamin A is also required for improving iron absorption in the body, which is essential for growth and development.
It is also a great source of vitamin C, which also helps to support the immune system and supports healthy collagen production which keeps our skin plump and smooth.
Look out for watercress in your next Pure Packages!
Interested in learning more about the important principles of nutrition in cooking? Leiths Nutrition in Culinary Practice Course is a great way to gain a comprehensive understanding of the nutritional makeup and effects of various foods. The Leiths chefs will lead you through hands-on cooking sessions to put the nutrition theory into culinary practice, whilst never compromising on flavour.
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