This particular benefit has already been confirmed by studies. Vitamin A is involved in several immune system functions, including regulating expression of certain genes that are involved in autoimmune symptoms. Romaine lettuce is one of the fastest-growing vegetables in terms of popularity, like kale and arugula. Unfortunately romaine lettuce has been linked to outbreaks of foodborne illnesses, including E. coli and salmonemalla, over the past several decades. Avoid buying leaves that have slimy spots or brown and yellow patches. While it might not taste like much, romaine lettuce nutrition boasts fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, folate, manganese, iron and potassium. Aside from adding it to sandwiches, this makes it a great leafy green to try grilling on the barbecue or roasting in your oven, in order to give it a char and to bring out it natural flavors. Your body does not make powerful vitamin C on its own naturally and relies on foods high in vitamin C. The body also does not store vitamin C, so it is important that you get this essential vitamin frequently from whole food sources, including leafy greens like romaine lettuce. Because of its great taste, ease of use, versatility in recipes and high nutrient profile, there’s reason to include romaine lettuce in your diet regularly. Unlike many other types of leafy greens, romaine is durable and can stand up well to high heat. Romaine lettuce is low in calories and carbs, but high in nutrients. Romaine lettuce health benefits include the ability to prevent bone loss, boost heart health, aid in weight loss and more. However, the crunchier stalks are also edible and nutritious. Seeds should be planted about a half-inch deep, with 12 to 15 inches between each row. (3), Romaine lettuce health benefits include the ability to aid in a healthy pregnancy. 4,094 international units vitamin A (82 percent DV), 48.2 micrograms vitamin K (60 percent DV), 11.3 milligrams vitamin C (19 percent DV), Which is better for you: iceberg or romaine lettuce? There are also steps you can take to reduce risk for contamination. Leaf Group Ltd. Studies have shown that the chlorophyll pigment in dark leafy greens, such as romaine lettuce, may reduce the risk of developing certain cancers, including colon cancer and liver cancers. It contains chlorophyll, a pigment found in leafy greens that can help reduce the risk of certain cancers. Check out five of the most surprising health benefits romaine lettuce offers the human body. As a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician I have extensive experience in musculoskeletal/neurological medicine that will benefit the network. One of the oldest benefits of lettuce, which dates back to medieval times, is its property to induce sleep. For pregnant women, a deficiency in folate (also called vitamin B9) can lead to neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. Terms of Use Romaine lettuce health benefits include the ability to aid in digestion. This has been proven in one Iranian study. This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. Try making one of these romaine lettuce recipes to add it to your diet more often: Romaine is a cool-weather crop that can be grown in both the spring and fall. The material appearing on LIVESTRONG.COM is for educational use only. Wash your hands before and after preparing fruits and vegetables. Romaine lettuce may not be classified as a superfood, but it does offer a number of nutrients that will benefit the body, according to Dr. Axe. Certain proteins in lettuce (or Romaine lettuce), like lipoxygenase, help control inflammation. A folate deficiency during pregnancy can lead to birth defects, including spina bifida. Believe it or not, romaine lettuce can add essential nutrients to your salads, sandwiches and other meals. Romaine Lettuce 10 Health Benefits of Romaine Lettuce 1. Consuming romaine lettuce and other leafy greens on a regular basis can help keep digestive problems at bay. , 30 Gluten-Free Recipes Canned Pumpkin: Is It Really Pumpkin & Is It Good for You? Buying, Romaine lettuce is a variety of lettuce from the. Vitamin C is an integral part of collagen production, which is required to build all new cells and tissues throughout the body. These vitamins are partly responsible for gene regulation and cell differentiation, and they work to stop free radical damage from overwhelming the body and leading to disease. Vitamin C also helps build collagen in the skin, which is responsible for building firm, healthy skin and preventing loss in elasticity. According to recent romaine lettuce updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 34 romaine lettuce E. coli or other foodborne illness outbreaks involving leafy vegetables within the past 15 years. This article, written by our staff, is free and open source. Both vitamins are responsible for aiding healthy eyesight and skin and play a role in maintaining strong bones and boosting immunity. Romaine has more volume and is nutritious in comparison to iceberg. It’s high in both water content and fiber content, which work to make sure the digestive system runs smoothly. Romaine lettuce is high in fiber and water content, which can help promote a feeling of satiety and reduce bloating. (1). But hey, it’s still a damn good base for a Caesar salad. The rich supply of vitamin A, vitamin C, and carotenoids like zeaxanthin found in romaine lettuce nutrition may help protect against eye disorders. Romaine lettuce nutrition includes plenty of nutrients that defend the skin from acne and inflammation, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium and B vitamins. Detox Your Lungs FAST With Ginger and Turmeric Tea! Thanks to its durable nature and sturdy “crunch,” romaine lettuce adds not only nutrients to your salads, sandwiches or other recipes, but also variety in terms of texture and flavor. It should not be advertisements are served by third party advertising companies. One serving of romaine lettuce can provide up to 4 mg or 40 percent of your recommended daily needs. The leafier upper part of the leaves, which has a deep green color, tends to be the most nutrient-dense. LIVESTRONG is a registered trademark of the LIVESTRONG Foundation. The fiber content of romaine lettuce makes it an good supplement for a clean digestive tract. Studies show that these vitamins also help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can cause tissue and cellular damage. used as a substitute for professional medical advice, There is actually a difference between folate, the natural form of multiple B vitamins, and folic acid in terms of health benefits. Treat the soil with composted organic matter about one week before you seed or transplant. When purchasing romaine, look for leaves that are sturdy and not yet browning. Have you heard of andrographis? Compared to iceberg lettuce nutrition, romaine lettuce nutrition is a richer source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, folate and other. There is no shortage of romaine lettuce recipe ideas. 1. In addition, consuming other fruits and vegetables and legumes will help you meet your recommended daily intake for potassium. Romaine lettuce is also a great vegetable to try juicing, adding nutrients and subtle flavor to your juice or smoothie without it becoming too bitter.