Scientists have declared watercress the world's healthiest vegetable, according to a study by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The leafy green scored a perfect 100 for nutrient density, beating Chinese cabbage, chard, beetroot greens and spinach to the top spot.
Watercress, a member of the Brassicaceae family alongside cabbage and kale, is rich in vitamins A, C, K, B6 and E, as well as calcium, iron and potassium. Dr Amy Lee, head of nutrition at Nucific, told Delish: 'Watercress has a lot of health benefits. It’s high in vitamin A and potassium, more so than your typical lettuce.'
The CDC report analysed over 40 'powerhouse fruits and vegetables' linked to reduced chronic disease risk. Cruciferous and green leafy vegetables dominated the top half of the rankings, while yellow/orange, allium, citrus and berry groups fell in the bottom half.
In Britain, watercress is widely available in supermarkets for around £1 a bag and has been cultivated for centuries. The Hampshire town of Alresford even hosts a festival in its honour, known as the 'watercress capital of the UK'. Commonly used in salads and soups, watercress can also be blended into pesto.
