Iceberg lettuce is a low-calorie food that is a source of vitamin A, iron, calcium, potassium, and beta-carotene. Regular consumption can slow cancerous tumor formation, prevent anemia, and improve immune system function. It is also beneficial for weight loss due to its high water content.
A leafy green that is eaten by many people of many different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, iceberg lettuce is commonly used in sandwiches, salads, and other food dishes. Although considered a low-calorie food, gram for gram, iceberg lettuce generally has fewer calories than other, darker, leafy greens. One cup of shredded lettuce has about 7 calories.
Iceberg lettuce is a viable source of vitamin A, also called retinol, which promotes healthy eyes, skin, and mucous membranes. The vitamin is known to specifically help the eyes focus in low-light settings. Regular consumption of iceberg lettuce has been shown to slow the formation of cancerous tumors, as vitamin A inhibits malicious DNA from forming cancer cells.
Iron is another important nutrient found in iceberg lettuce and can help supply the body’s cells with oxygen. As a key component of iceberg lettuce’s nutritional value, iron prevents anemia, a condition in which the body has a low blood count. Low iron deficiency can cause weakness and fatigue, so eating iceberg lettuce will help replenish iron stores in the body.
Calcium, a mineral used to help with bone growth, is found naturally in iceberg lettuce. In addition to the nutritional value of iceberg lettuce, the calcium may be beneficial for growing children, who are still in the developmental stage of their lives. Seniors can also benefit from the calcium found in iceberg lettuce, as the mineral helps prevent osteoporosis.
The potassium found in lettuce can help prevent strokes, lower blood pressure, facilitate muscle growth, and improve kidney and heart functions. This electrolyte contributes to healthy muscle contractions and fluid balance within the body. Potassium increases the nutritional value of iceberg lettuce and has also been shown to improve nerve function.
Beta-carotene, a type of phytonutrient most often associated with carrots, is another part of iceberg lettuce’s nutritional value. Commonly found in green leaves, beta-carotene enhances the functions of the immune system. Iceberg lettuce consumption is beneficial for people who have compromised immune systems.
Due to its relatively low calorie count, iceberg lettuce can be a beneficial staple for anyone on a weight loss program. Large amounts of lettuce can be consumed, subsequently filling the stomach and making the person feel full for long periods of time. Lettuce tends to be stringy with a high water content, which contributes to making your stomach feel full.
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