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Watercress

In season

Food Description:

The ancient Greeks believed that watercress could cure a deranged mind. It is a green vegetable native to Europe and Asia and a member of the Cruciferous family. When Roman soldiers were instructed to eat watercress they were noticeably healthier from doing so and Roman emperors ate it to help them make 'bold decisions.'It is enjoying new popularity due to the release of the watercress soup diet book. Recognized by its tiny rounded leaves attached from base to tips. It has a spicy and slightly peppery taste; often used in cooking as well as fresh.
Watercress is usually sold in large bunches. Plan to do a few things with it or it can go to waste.
Look for sprightly dark green leaves - they should not be yellowing. The stalks should be crisp and firm with no signs of wilting.
Remove the string wrapped around the bunch and store in a plastic bag in the crisper section of the refrigerator.
Watercress can also be wrapped in damp paper towels to retain freshness. Eat within 3 days of purchase.

General Information:

Category: Vegetable
To Buy: Watercress is usually sold in large bunches. Plan to do a few things with it or it can go to waste. Look for sprightly dark green leaves - they should not be yellowing. The stalks should be crisp and firm with no signs of wilting.
To Store: Remove the string wrapped around the bunch and store in a plastic bag in the crisper section of the refrigerator. Watercress can also be wrapped in damp paper towels to retain freshness. Eat within 3 days of purchase.
Tips and Tricks:

Nutrition (1 Cup):

Weight (grams): 37
Carbohydrates, g: 0.3
Fat (g): 0.1
Monosaturated Fat , g: 0.0
Vitamin C: Antioxidant, anti inflammatory and immune-boosting, this vitamin has a range of uses. Is essential for collagen formation, therefore plays a role in wound healing. Fights infection and protects against free radical damage. Vitamin C helps maintain normal cholesterol levels, promotes the absorption of iron and counters the effects of stress as it is concentrated in the adrenal glands. Contraindications: Large doses can cause diaorrhea or gas.
Potassium: Needed for normal growth and muscle and nerve contraction. Together with sodium regulates water and fluid balance in the body.
Amines: Amines come the breakdown or fermentation of proteins. High amounts are found in cheese, chocolate, wine, beer and yeast extracts. Smaller amounts are present in some fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, avocados, bananas. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. Low
Glutamates: Glutamate is found naturally in many foods, as part of protein. It enhances the flavour of food, which is why foods rich in natural glutamates such as tomatoes, mushrooms and cheeses are commonly used in meals. Pure monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as an additive to artificially flavour many processed foods, and should be avoided, especially in sensitive individuals as it can cause serious adverse reactions. n/a
Energy (kJ): 41
Protein (g): 1.1
Saturated Fat, g : 0.0
Vitamin A: Often called the "anti-infective" vitamin, it protects the mucous membranes of the body, reducing chance of infection and enhancing the immune system's response. Necessary for growth and maintenenance of bones, teeth and body tissues and healthy foetal development, this vitamin is also important for night vision. Contraindications: Taken in excess will accumulate in the body.
Iron, mg: Main function is synthesis of red blood cells, thus delivering oxygen around the body and maintaining all bodily functions. Contraindications: Excess accumulation may play a role in development of heart disease.
Antioxidants:
Salicylates: Naturally occurring plant chemicals found in several fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices, jams, honey, yeast extracts, tea and coffee, juices, beer and wines. Also present in flavourings, perfumes, scented toiletries and some medications. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. High

Cooking:

Cooking Tips: Watercress can be added to sandwiches, served in salads, blanched in salted water and served like spinach, mixed with pasta, used in soups ... it's so good for you it's worth adding to everything!

Benefits the Following Health Conditions:*

Anaemia
Cold and Flus
Intestinal Worms & Parasites
Low Energy
Detoxifying
 Bronchitis
Fluid Retention
Liver Sluggish
Premature Aging
Slow metabolism

* This information is sourced by a qualified naturopath. It is non prescriptive and not intended as a cure for the condition. Recommended intake is not provided. It is no substitute for the advice and treatment of a professional practitioner.



Disclaimer:
The Food Coach provides all content as is, without warranty. The Food Coach is not responsible for errors or omissions, or consequences of improper preparation, user allergies, or any other consequence of food preparation or consumption.