Watercress is a very underrated and underused vegetable. It is a good source of many important nutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, iron and folate and is packed with a wide range of phytochemicals that help prevent disease and premature ageing. Watercress is also a particularly rich source of a group of phytochemicals called glucosinolates. It is these compounds that give watercress its distinctive peppery taste. Experiments carried out at Ulster University have shown that they can also slow the growth of cancer cells and stimulate the ability of cells to resist DNA damaging agents thought to induce cancer. Eating watercress on a daily basis has also been shown to reduce cholesterol and even has a significant effect on a baby's health in vitro!

For more information and lots of hints and tips in how to include more watercress in your family's diet visit http://www.watercress.co.uk .

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