Sunday, February 1, 2015

Watercress Benefits & Nutrition Facts

Watercress, or in biology called Nasturtium officinale, is a plant that is very rich in nutrients, especially vitamins and minerals. Only few peoples are aware of the watercress health benefits, which are one good kidney dialysis, while also a Tonic for healing liver and kidney disorders. In fact, this plant contain powerful compounds that may help fight breast cancer. A study conducted at the University of Southampton and published in the British Journal of Nutrition, phenylethyl isothiocyanate compound in watercress may suppress the growth of breast cancer cells.



Watercress work with lethal signals within cells that provoke the growth of cancer cells. When tumors and cancer preventing blood supply, compounds contained in the watercress will send a signal to the normal cells to continue to provide oxygen and nutrients. Compounds in the watercress will disrupt the cancer cell signaling. The compound will prevent the cancer cells block blood and oxygen in the body of a person.

A study found watercress compound, also effectively inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells and colon. In the study known to a small group of breast cancer patients were asked to eat a bowl of watercress, then their blood tested clinically next 24 hours.

The researchers found a significant level of the plant compounds in the conduct of the blood after eating watercress. Signaling function of the plant is also measurable affect blood cells of women. The researchers concluded dam believe that a lot of work to do to find a direct impact watercress to reduce the risk of cancer.

Some studies suggest that eating broccoli and watercress reduce the risk of breast cancer. Watercress is a source of calcium that is rich in iron, zinc, potassium and magnesium. It also provides vitamin C, A, E, K, and B, including folate.

Watercress has been recommended to improve eye health because it contains a rich supply of carotenoids 2, lutein, and zeaxanthin protect the eyes from cataracts threat. Watercress also help normalize cholesterol and blood pressure, blood purifier, and breath fresheners.

In Ancient Egypt, watercress is provided to increase stamina army. Some tribes in Africa believe that this plant is an aphrodisiac. Watercress can be used for salads and soups, as well as complementary sandwiches. This plant is widely available in the market, sometimes also found as a hydroponic plants.

To get more benefitas information, below are watercress nutrition facts taken from wikipedia.
Watercress (raw) Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz)
Energy46 kJ (11 kcal)

Carbohydrates
1.29 g
Sugars0.2 g
Dietary fiber0.5 g

Fat
0.1 g

Protein
2.3 g

Vitamins
Vitamin A equiv.
beta-carotene
lutein zeaxanthin
(20%)
160 μg
(18%)
1914 μg
5767 μg
Thiamine (B1)
(8%)
0.09 mg
Riboflavin (B2)
(10%)
0.12 mg
Pantothenic acid (B5)
(6%)
0.31 mg
Vitamin B6
(10%)
0.129 mg
Folate (B9)
(2%)
9 μg
Vitamin C
(52%)
43 mg
Vitamin E
(7%)
1 mg
Vitamin K
(238%)
250 μg

Trace metals
Calcium
(12%)
120 mg
Iron
(2%)
0.2 mg
Magnesium
(6%)
21 mg
Manganese
(12%)
0.244 mg
Phosphorus
(9%)
60 mg
Potassium
(7%)
330 mg
Sodium
(3%)
41 mg