Like beetroot , watercress contains natural nitrates . When chewed in the mouth these are converted by beneficial bacteria to nitrites and once in the stomach to gaseous nitrogen which enters the bloodstream dilating blood vessels and LOWERING blood pressure.
Who should not eat watercress?
Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: Watercress is LIKELY UNSAFE for use as a medicine in children, especially in those younger than four years old. Stomach or intestinal ulcers : Don't use watercress if you have stomach or intestinal ulcers. Kidney disease: Don't use watercress if you have kidney disease.
Is watercress good for high blood pressure?
Summary Watercress has many potential benefits for heart health, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels . Diets high in cruciferous vegetables are linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
Is eating too much watercress bad for you?
Watercress is suitable for all ages, except for those with kidney stones or who are at risk of kidney stones. This is because watercress contains a lot of oxalates, compounds that can cause stones to form. For this reason, it's important not to eat too much watercress , or ask a health professional for advice.
What is the best way to eat watercress?
The simplest way to prep watercress—and the way that allows its peppery green flavor to shine best—is to toss it into a salad . You can serve it on its own with a light dressing, or toss it with other greens and veggies. Either way, you'll want to make sure you remove the thickest stems if you're eating it raw.
What is the health benefit of watercress?
Watercress is also rich in vitamin C , which supports your immune system, helps you heal from injuries, and supports healthy collagen production. Watercress is full of beta-carotene and other carotenoids, which are known for being potent antioxidants.
Can I eat watercress everyday?
Maintaining healthy bones
Eating just one cup of watercress a day would help a person meet their daily requirement of vitamin K. Watercress is also a good source of calcium, which further supports bone development and strength.
Is watercress better than spinach?
Watercress scores a whopping 1000 on the scale putting it in joint first place with kale , right at the top of the crops and way ahead of blueberries, edamame, broccoli and spinach.
Is watercress good for your kidneys?
Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Stomach or intestinal ulcers: Don't use watercress if you have stomach or intestinal ulcers. Kidney disease: Don't use watercress if you have kidney disease .
How do you get rid of watercress?
1) Dig up Watercress root and all before it begins to flower. Remove weeds to an area away from shoreline and allow it to dry. 2) 2,4-D herbicide is a systemic option that is best applied early spring at the first sign of new growth prior to seed. This option will kill the entire weed root and all.
Is watercress a Superfood?
Atop the list? Watercress, long known as a superfood because it packs large amounts of a wide variety of these important substances, with a score of 100. The next five in the elite category: Chinese cabbage (91.99), chard (89.27), beet greens (87.08), spinach (86.43) and chicory (73.36).
Is watercress good for stomach?
With dietary fibre and anti-bacterial properties, watercress can aid better digestion , balance gut flora, and revitalise our metabolism. Watercress may also cure other digestion related symptoms such as bloating, cramping and wind.
Is watercress good for your skin?
A compound called Isothiocyanate (ITC) and vitamin C which are found in watercress can help STOP and prevent the breakdown of collagen and elastin and lead to more production of collagen leading to younger, healthier and more elastic skin. This will therefore reduce cellulite and wrinkles.
What are the 3 foods to never eat?
- Sugary drinks. Added sugar is one of the worst ingredients in the modern diet. ...
- Most pizzas. ...
- White bread. ...
- Most fruit juices. ...
- Sweetened breakfast cereals. ...
- Fried, grilled, or broiled food. ...
- Pastries, cookies, and cakes. ...
- French fries and potato chips.
What is a substitute for watercress?
- Arugula is probably the closest match you'll find for watercress. Its flavor is similarly mild and peppery, and it'll provide you with a similar nutritional boost.
- Nasturtium leaves. ...
- Radish sprouts. ...
- Kale. ...
- Spinach.
What can I do with old watercress?
- Salads. It may seem obvious but watercress is the perfect base for any salad, adding crunch, a peppery flavour, and a vibrant dark green colour. ...
- Smoothies. ...
- Soup. ...
- Sandwiches. ...
- Sauce. ...
- Pesto. ...
- Stir fries. ...
- Dips.
