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Health Benefits of Watercress

Health Benefits of Watercress

Water cress is a leafy vegetable which has been the part of human culture for thousands of years. This plants is known to grow on water and has scientific name of Nasturtium officinale. These plants have been known to originate in Europe as well as Asia and are known to be a close relative of mustard and radish. This plant has been known to grow best in slightly alkaline water. They are sold fresh and mostly packed as they tend to dry very quickly and hence lose their nutritional value. This plant is known to grow up to the height of 4 ft. if left uncultivated. Like most other plants once the flowers start to bloom the taste of this vegetable becomes bitter. Let’s see what all advantages does this plant offer?

Nutritional Value of Water Cress (100g)

Calories 11
Total Fat 0.1g 0%
Total Carbohydrate 1.3g 0%
Dietary Fiber 5g 2%
Protein 2.3g 4%
Vitamin A 63%
Vitamin C 71%
Calcium 12%
Iron 1%

Health Benefits of Water Cress

  1. Is known to possess anti-cancer properties

    Water cress if included in the diet is known to reverse the effects of free radicals on the body. They have been known to be beneficial in dealing with breast as well as stomach cancers. They are known to reverse the DNA changes to white blood cells and make these cells stronger so that it can battle the attack from outside ailments. Also, there are certain phytochemicals present in this vegetable which tend to protect cells from any internal changes.

  2. Helps Maintain thyroid health

    This vegetable has been known to be a member of Brassica family and hence is known to be beneficial in maintaining the health of thyroid. They are known to regulate the levels of thyroid hormone production and are best when consumed raw.

  3. Helps Maintain Cardio vascular health

    High levels of nutrients present in watercress are known to reduce chances of numerous chronic diseases. These plants have been known to be beneficial in lowering the levels of LDL cholesterol and hence reduce chances of numerous heart related ailments. They are also known to contain Vitamin C which is responsible for reducing any oxidative stress on the body.

  4. Helps in Maintaining Bone Health

    Water cress has been known to be rich in Calcium and thus is known to lower the risk of osteoporosis. Calcium tends to repair numerous bones as well as maintains its density. There are other compounds such as foliate present in water cress which helps in maintaining the health of your bones.

  5. Works as an Anti-depressant

    Low levels of foliate have been known to cause stress and depression among the individuals. Water cress is known to be a good source of foliate and hence helps in boosting up the mood and reducing the chances of depression. Also, this foliate found in this vegetable has been known to be effective in treating numerous serious ailments.

  6. Helps in Prevention Against Stroke

    Foliate found in this vegetable has been known to prevent chance of heart stroke. You either need to consume a balanced diet with fortified foods, or you can consume foliate rich vegetable for maintaining your overall health.

  7. Helps Amidst Pregnancy

    The high levels of foliate found in water cress has been known to be helpful during child development in mother’s womb as it assists cell division. Also, consumption of 400mg of foliate has been known to decrease the chances of any birth defects in new-born child.

  8. Is a good source of Vitamin C

    Vitamin C is known to be a soluble Vitamin which means that it is excreted each time you pee. Therefore you a require a food which would compensate for this loss, and what better option to consider than water cress. These vegetables are known to contain high volumes of Vitamin C which is responsible for cell repair as well prevention against numerous diseases.

  9. Helps Maintain a healthy brain

    Consumption of this vegetable has been known to prevent disease such as Alzheimer and other brain or memory related issues. It has been known to repair number of brain tissues and also prevents excessive bleeding if heart stroke occurs. In case anyone has suffered from a brain injury than this vegetable is a good option for you to consume as it helps in healthy repair of brain cells while at the same time satisfies your daily nutrient requirement.

  10. Beneficial In Maintaining Good Vision

    Vitamin C found in this vegetable has been known to prevent occurrence of eye related issues such as cataract. They help in reducing any oxidative stress on the eyes and thereby preventing any loss of vision.

  11. Effective Remedy Against Common Cold

    Foods which are known to be rich in Vitamin C have been associated with treatment of common cold. Water cress is known to loosen up any congestion developed inside the body while at the same time preventing issues such as asthma from occurring.

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