Watercress: The Superfood That Can Help in the Fight Against Depression

Watercress: A Superfood in the Fight Against Depression

Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) is an aquatic vegetable that stands out not only for its distinctive flavor but also for its numerous nutritional properties. This powerful food is an excellent addition to your diet, especially if you are looking for natural ways to enhance your emotional well-being.

Benefits of Watercress

1. Nutritional Value

Watercress is a rich source of essential nutrients. In a 100-gram serving, you will find:

• Calories: Approximately 11 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 1.5 g

• Proteins: 2.7 g

• Fats: 0.4 g

• Fiber: 1.6 g

• Vitamin C: 43 mg (about 48% of the daily recommended intake)

• Vitamin K: 250 µg (about 208% of the DRV)

• Calcium: 81 mg

• Iron: 1.5 mg

Watercress is extraordinarily rich in vitamins C and K, two crucial nutrients that offer various health benefits.

2. Antioxidant Properties

Rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, watercress helps combat free radicals that can damage cells. This contributes to reducing the risk of diseases, including those related to mental disorders.

3. Support for Mental Health

Studies show that a diet rich in vegetables and antioxidants can help decrease symptoms of depression. Although more research is needed to specifically understand the effects of watercress, its richness in nutrients like vitamin C is promising for the production of neurotransmitters that influence mood, such as serotonin.

Benefits Associated with Watercress Juice

Making a juice that combines watercress with other healthy ingredients can be a pleasurable way to increase your nutrient intake. Here’s a recipe for a juice that may help improve your mood.

Antidepressant Watercress Juice Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of fresh watercress

• 1 ripe banana

• 2 tablespoons of oats

• 10 almonds (or another nut of your choice)

• 500 ml of water (or more, depending on desired texture)

• Honey (optional, to sweeten)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the watercress thoroughly under running water. Peel the banana and set it aside.

2. Soak the Almonds: For best results, soak the almonds for a few hours or overnight. This can enhance digestibility.

3. Blend in a Blender: Place the watercress, banana, oats, almonds, and water in a blender.

4. Mix Well: Blend until the mixture is smooth. If necessary, add more water for a smoother consistency.

5. Sweeten to taste: If desired, add a bit of honey and blend again until mixed.

6. Serve Fresh: Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Conclusion

Incorporating watercress into your diet is a delicious way to enhance your nutrition and potentially your mental well-being. The combination of watercress, banana, oats, and almonds in a tasty juice offers a range of essential nutrients that can promote a sense of well-being. Try this recipe and discover the benefits of a healthier lifestyle!