6 Benefits of Watercress Infusion
Watercress infusion offers several health benefits due to its dense nutritional content and active antioxidant compounds. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Watercress is rich in over 50 vital vitamins and minerals, including calcium, folate, vitamin C, and vitamin E. It contains more calcium than milk, more folate than bananas, more vitamin C than oranges, and more vitamin E than broccoli .2. Heart Health: Watercress plays a major role in heart health. It is a stellar addition to the diet and contains heart-healthy nutrients. It is low in sodium and saturated fat, and it contains compounds like quercetin, which may support heart health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Additionally, it contains vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for cardiovascular health, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium .
3. Bone Health: Watercress is a good source of folate, which plays a direct role in maintaining bone density. Adequate vitamin K consumption, found in watercress, also improves bone health, making it beneficial for maintaining strong and healthy bones .
4. Cancer Prevention: Watercress contains phenylethyl isothiocyanate, which interferes with a critical protein in cancer development, starving cancer tumor growth and slowing the rate of spread. This makes it a promising food for cancer risk reduction .
5. Cognitive Health: Consumption of foods rich in vitamin C, such as watercress, may be beneficial in preventing cognitive changes related to Alzheimer's and aging. It also works to reduce bleeding when a stroke has occurred, potentially improving the outcomes of brain injury .
6. Immune System Support: Watercress is rich in vitamin A, which is important for maintaining a strong immune system. It contains more than 50% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A in a 100-gram serving, making it beneficial for immune system support .
In summary, watercress infusion offers a wide range of health benefits, including being rich in essential vitamins and minerals, supporting heart and bone health, potentially aiding in cancer prevention, and providing support for cognitive health and the immune system.
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