New research has stated that eating a bowl of watercress, a salad leaf, can significantly reduce DNA damage to blood cells.
The report was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and it involved 30 men and 30 women, half of whom were smokers. They ate a small bag of prepared salad for eight weeks, in addition to their regular diet.
The results of the blood tests on the participants showed a 22.9 percent reduction in DNA damage to white blood cells. Damage to DNA is considered by experts to be an important trigger in the development of cancer.
The benefits of watercress were especially notable among smokers.
The research concluded "The results support the theory that consumption of watercress can be linked to a reduced risk of cancer via decreased damage to DNA and possible modulation of antioxidant status by increasing carotenoid concentrations."
So, I think next time instead of skipping over the watercress for the arugula I will grab both!
1. Watercress? One would never think that this little green could play such a valuable role in cancer prevention and then to assist also with our WBC. Wow! 22.9 percent is impressive. I have in the past added this to my salad to make it look a little more interesting, and I must confess, to fill the salad bowl a little more, since I do rely on fresh greens, fruits and veggies so much in my healing. Who would think one could be so excited over watercress, even the word lacks interest.
Our DNA, WBC plays an important role in all diseases, so the more we can find to prevent the damage of DNA, well, that's one big step forward!
Congrats to our research.
So, to all those who rely on diet for their own healing, don't second guess, grab some watercress!
Thank you, Jason Chambers
Posted at 9:45PM on Feb 15th 2007 by Jason Chambers