The ranking of vegetables beneficial to health, selected by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has recently been released. The top spot went to watercress, followed by cabbage in second place, turnip greens in third, beets in fourth, and spinach in fifth. Let's explore the health benefits of watercress, which was ranked as the healthiest vegetable.

 

Rich in nutrients and low in calories

Water lettuce is a vegetable that signifies growing in flowing cold water and is cultivated in clean water. It belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family, which has four petals. Cruciferous vegetables are high in fiber and water content, making them effective for weight management. According to the analysis by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, water lettuce is rich in 17 nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B, magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

◇Improvement of Heart Health

Cold water fish are rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which are good for improving heart health. These antioxidants reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, promoting blood circulation and keeping blood vessels clean. The nitrate content has a blood pressure-lowering effect, enhancing cardiovascular protection.

 

◇Reduces the risk of cancer development

Watercress consumption is also effective in cancer prevention. Watercress contains a large amount of phytochemicals, including glucosinolates, which inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Phytochemicals are chemicals found in plant-based foods that act as natural antioxidants and help prevent cancer. When watercress is consumed, glucosinolates are converted into isothiocyanates in the body, which prevent DNA damage and have a cancer-preventive effect.

 

◇Hormone Balance

Watercress contains vitamin B, calcium, and magnesium, which help maintain hormonal balance in the body. These nutrients play a vital role in metabolic functions, stress response, and neurotransmitter activity, thereby supporting hormonal equilibrium.

 

Detoxification and Liver Health

The natural compounds abundant in cold water help enhance the body's natural detoxification process and improve liver health. Plant compounds are highly effective in waste elimination, aiding liver function.

 

◇Skin Improvement

The vitamin C, beta-carotene, and lutein components contained in cold water noodles have the effect of making the skin firm and maintaining moisture. In particular, vitamin C is an essential nutrient for collagen production, which is necessary for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing fine lines.

 

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I've seen a lot of mint in the field, but...

Watercress???

This is my first time.

Watercress has great health benefits.