High Antioxidant Content May Lower Your Risk of Chronic Diseases

Watercress is high in antioxidants, which are plant components that defend against cell damage produced by free radicals, which are damaging molecules that cause oxidative stress. Chronic disorders such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease have all been linked to oxidative stress. Fortunately, eating antioxidant-rich foods like watercress can help protect against oxidative stress, potentially lowering your risk of certain illnesses.

Watercress included over 40 distinct flavonoids, a type of plant molecule, according to one study on the antioxidant components in 12 different cruciferous vegetables. Watercress, in fact, surpassed all other vegetables in this study in terms of total phenol content and capacity to neutralize free radicals. Furthermore, studies have connected watercress antioxidants to a decreased risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.