Watercress is the healthiest vegetable in the world, or at least that’s what some well-known rankings suggest. This inconspicuous plant from the cabbage family won, among others, in the list of the American agency Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where various were assessed in terms of the content of key nutrients per unit of calories.
William Paterson University scientists consider it a vitamin bomb, whose regular consumption can actually contribute to improving your health. It’s really a pity that we consume it so rarely, because it can be invaluable. Especially for seniors.
There are many reasons why it is worth eating watercress. This is a low-calorie vegetable (only 11 kcal per 100 g)which is not very popular today, although it was a hit on plates 100 years ago.
Our great-grandmothers also often used them in folk medicine for strengthening or constipation, as well as to support digestion. Watercress contains a lot of fiber, beta-carotene, calcium, ascorbic acid, magnesium and iron. It is also a source of glucosinolates, polyphenols and flavonoids, and in terms of the amount of potassium it beats even tomatoes.
Therefore, it is worth reaching for it also in old age, because it can support metabolism, have a beneficial effect on bones, joints and liver, and help maintain proper levels of LDL cholesterol and glucose in the blood.
The taste of watercress is distinctive and slightly spicy (especially the older leaves, because the young ones are more subtle). Some people think it resembles radish or young arugula with a slight hint of mustard. It is fresh and crunchy.
Watercress is best raw, but you can also process it, e.g. by adding a vegetable to a soup. Watercress is usually used in the kitchen as an addition to bread, cottage cheese, salad or cocktails.
Watercress is one of the easiest vegetables to grow at home, also for beginners and seniors. You can grow it on a windowsill in a pot, wide jar or bowl.
Does not need much space. Just sprinkle the seeds onto slightly wet soil and press them gently. However, you must remember to water the watercress regularly.
Her soil should be light at all times . Provide it with a bright position and room temperature. The first leaves will be ready to be harvested after 2-3 weeks.
