Not broccoli or spinach: Scientists claim this overlooked vegetable is the healthiest
Translated from Serbian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Scientists have identified watercress as the healthiest vegetable, awarding it a perfect score in a nutritional density study.
- The study, conducted by the CDC, ranked over 40 fruits and vegetables based on their nutrient content.
- Watercress, a peppery leafy green from the cruciferous family, is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and other essential nutrients.
Scientists have crowned watercress, a leafy green often overlooked in favor of more common vegetables, as the healthiest food. In a comprehensive study ranking the nutritional density of over 40 fruits and vegetables, watercress achieved a perfect score of 100.
The research, conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), evaluated various produce based on their nutrient content. While familiar items like carrots, spinach, and broccoli were included, none reached the top tier. Watercress, known for its slightly peppery taste, surpassed other nutrient-rich options such as Chinese cabbage, Swiss chard, beet greens, and spinach.
Watercress belongs to the cruciferous family, which also includes cabbage, kale, and mustard greens. Its Latin name, Nasturtium officinale, hints at its pungent flavor. Although available in Serbia, it is less common than other leafy greens and can be found in well-stocked markets or grown at home.
According to nutritionist Dr. Amy Lee, watercress offers significant health benefits. It boasts higher levels of vitamin A and potassium than most green salads and provides substantial amounts of vitamin C, calcium, iron, vitamin E, vitamin K, and vitamin B6. The study analyzed numerous "superfoods," linking them to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, with cruciferous and dark leafy greens consistently ranking high.
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Originally published by N1 Serbia in Serbian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.