Why Eat Iceberg Lettuce And Celery

Do you avoid iceberg lettuce and celery because you subscribe to the myths that iceberg lettuce has no nutrients and celery is just water? The myths are partially true. Iceberg doesn't have as many nutrients as the darker leafed varieties, and celery is more than 90% water. However, both are still good for you and contain vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals.

Celery facts:

• Keeps your blood pressure down. Celery contains pthalides, rare compounds that lower your blood pressure by relaxing artery walls.


• Lowers cancer risk. Celery also contains apigenin, a potent phytochemical that protects against cancer by inhibiting gene mutations.


• Helps you stay slim. Celery sticks can satisfy an urge to munch with virtually no calories.

Iceberg lettuce facts:

• Boosts bones. 1 cup of shredded iceberg lettuce delivers nearly 20% of your daily does of vitamin K, a nutrient many women don't get enough of. Researchers say that women who ate one or more servings a day of lettuce (they're all rich in it) had the lowest rates of hip fractures.


• Protects your sight. Iceberg lettuce is a good source of vitamin A, needed to keep your vision sharp. 1 cup supplies 15% of your daily dose.

So though they may not pack the punch of other veggies, if you like them, eat them. They can still be a great vehicle for getting more produce into your day!

Source info: June 2008 Prevention