If you are looking for ways to live a healthier life, then incorporating escarole into your diet is a great place to start. This leafy green is not only delicious, but it is also packed full of nutrients that can help you achieve optimal health.
In this article, we will explore 5 benefits of eating escarole, also known as “crusader” lettuce.
1. Low in Calories
Escarole is known for being low in calories, making it a great addition to any weight loss or weight management program. One cup of escarole contains only 15 calories, so you can eat a lot of it without worrying about the impact on your waistline.
This makes it a great option if you want to enjoy a large, satisfying salad without consuming too many calories.
2. High in Vitamins and Minerals
Escarole is a great source of many vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.
One cup of escarole contains 20% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A, 10% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, and 8% of the recommended daily intake of potassium. It also contains smaller amounts of calcium, magnesium, and iron. Eating escarole can help ensure that you are getting the important nutrients that your body needs to stay healthy.
3. Good for Digestion
Escarole is high in fiber, which makes it great for digestion. Eating foods that are high in fiber can help regulate your digestive system and prevent constipation. Additionally, escarole contains inulin, which is a type of fiber that acts as a prebiotic.
Prebiotics are important for promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can boost overall gut health and immunity.
4. Helps to Lower Cholesterol
Escarole is a great food to eat if you are looking to lower your cholesterol levels. It contains compounds called flavonoids, which have been shown to help reduce levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in the blood.
Eating escarole regularly can help to reduce your risk of heart disease and other health problems associated with high cholesterol.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Escarole contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to a number of health problems, including heart disease and cancer. Eating escarole regularly can help to keep inflammation under control, thereby reducing your risk of these and other diseases.
In conclusion, escarole is a delicious and nutritious food that can help you achieve optimal health. It is low in calories, high in vitamins and minerals, good for digestion, can help to lower cholesterol levels, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
So, if you haven’t already, be sure to include this “crusader” lettuce in your diet.