Watercress Benefits

Watercress is mostly ignored leafy green, which comes with a highly powerful nutrient punch. It is a part of the Brassicaceae family of veggies, including kale, cabbage, and Brussels sprout. You have got to find out some watercress benefits!

It was once thought of as a weed and was grown in the UK in the early 1800s. But is grown in watery beds now in the whole world. It is small, has round leaves and edible stems, which have a slightly spicy flavor. 

The benefits of watercress are as follows:

1.    Full of nutrients:

Watercress is very low in calories but is full of many different nutrients. Nutrient density is the total measure of nutrients that any food has concerning the calories it gives. Hence watercress is highly rich in nutrients. One cup of watercress has the following:

• Calories: 4 
• Carbs: .4 grams 
• Protein: 0.8 grams 
• Fat: 0 grams 
• Fiber: 0.2 grams 
• Vitamin K: 106% of the RDI 
• Calcium: 4% of RDI 
• Manganese: 4% of the RDI 
• Vitamins A: 22% of RDI
• Vitamin C: 24% of the RDI

Watercress also has small amounts of vitamin E, riboflavin, thiamine, folate, magnesium, and copper. 

2.   High antioxidant content:

Watercress is packed up with plant compounds called antioxidants which protect against cell damage caused by the free radicals that are harmful molecules that lead to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has also been linked with many chronic illnesses, including diabetes, cancer, and different cardiovascular diseases.

Luckily, diets rich in antioxidants may help protect against oxidative stress that might lower your risk of developing illnesses. 

3.   Beneficial for heart health:

Eating watercress might be healthy for heart health in many ways. It contains antioxidants that improve your heart health.

Watercress has antioxidants zeaxanthin, beta carotene, and lutein. Low levels of carotenoids are linked with heart disease and higher blood pressure. 

4.   Minerals and vitamin K protect against osteoporosis:

Watercress has many minerals important for maintaining healthy bones, including magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. Though calcium is the most highly known mineral for its effects on bone health, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin K also play their roles.

Having a balanced diet that includes nutrient-dense vegetables is linked with positive effects on bone health. Watercress’ nutrition will keep you healthy for a long time.

5.   Boost immune function:

There are many health benefits of vegetables that watercress possesses. Watercress has 15 mg of vitamin C that is 20% of RDI for women and around 17% for men. Vitamin C is known for its benefits on immune health.

A deficiency in vitamin C has been linked with a decrease in immune function and increased inflammation. Vitamin C strengthens your immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells, which fight off infections. 

Conclusion on watercress benefits:

The health benefits of watercress will help you live a stronger and healthier life ahead. Incorporate this delicious veggie in your salads!