Watercress is actually a
weed. But it’s not
just any weed. It’s packed with antioxidants. You can find it growing alongside
streams and riverbeds in nearly every U.S. state. Although I would suggest you
go to your local health food store where you can find it in the produce
section.
The health benefits abound. Around 400 BC
Hippocrates located the first hospital Kos near a stream so that he could have
watercress available for his patience’s. That’s because it is low in calories
and high in antioxidants. Watercress is a great source of Vitamin K which helps
to strengthen bones and helps to limit neural damage to the brain, which is
helpful in treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Watercress is also an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Vitamin C provides infection-fighting power to stave off colds and flu, as well as, helps to maintain healthy connective tissue and prevents iron deficiency. Vitamin A, also known as retinol, is essential for a properly functioning immune system. It also produces pigments in the retina of the eye. An absence of these pigments can cause night blindness.
Further watercress helps to keep you cellular metabolic functions at peak. This
improves the body’s ability to absorb and use calcium and vitamin B-complex.
Watercress both tastes
great and is a power pack of essential nutrients
making it my favorite summer salad. To the watercress I add avocado for a great
source of fiber, potassium, folate and vitamin E. I also add a fresh orange and
orange juice to give it a great kick of vitamin C. Then I top it with Hemp seed
hearts to add a great dose of omega3! Everything can easily be bought at any health
food store.
Here is my simple and easy powerhouse watercress salad recipe!
Watercress Salad
In a bowl grate 1 teaspoon of orange zest and add 3 teaspoons of
freshly squeezed orange juice, 1 teaspoon of olive oil and a dash of ground
cumin.
Toss trimmed and washed 1 bunch of watercress into the dressing
and then arrange on a platter.
Top with slices of one naval orange (peel and pith removed.)
Top with thin slices of avocado.
Sprinkle a tablespoon or two of hemp seed heart on top. (Or use any
chopped nut or seed such as chia or flax.)
And my favorite wine to pair with it is Pouilly Fume or Sancerre
because of their light crisp flavor.
At about 137 calories a serving and with a powerhouse of nutrients
watercress salad is my favorite summer salad!
Doctor Lynn
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