According to experts and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), watercress is declared the healthiest vegetable in the world, achieving a perfect score of 100 in nutritional density.
This leafy green, a member of the cabbage family, is celebrated for its impressive nutrient profile, providing significant amounts of vitamins and minerals with very few calories—only about 4 calories per cup.
Watercress is particularly rich in vitamin K, offering 106% of the daily recommended intake per serving, which is essential for bone health and blood clotting.
It also contains 17% of the daily value of vitamin C, crucial for immune function and skin health.
Additionally, watercress provides antioxidants and phytochemicals that may help protect against various cancers.
Other vegetables that scored highly include Chinese cabbage and chard, with scores of 91.99 and 89.27, respectively.
The nutrient density of watercress makes it a powerful addition to a balanced diet, promoting overall health and well-being.