Wonderful Effects of Watercress on Oxidative Stress

Oxidative Stress as defined by Mirriam-Webster is physiological stress on the body that is caused by the cumulative damage done by free radicals(damaged cells)  inadequately neutralized by antioxidants which is held to be associated with aging.  Studies conducted using ultra-marathoners show that Exercise-Induced Oxidative stress is caused by exercising when our bodies don’t have enough antioxidants to combat these free radicals.  Although I’m no ultra-marathoner, I became interested once I read studies involving Watercress and how it combats exercise-induced oxidative stress!  In the above mentioned study, athletes were given just one serving (1cup raw) of watercress prior to getting on the treadmill.  Studies also prove that ingesting one serving of watercress both short-term and/or long-term reduces oxidative stress.  More studies have shown that adding watercress to your diet can reduce blood triglyceride levels by an average of 10% and increase blood levels of lutein and beta-carotene(which is good).  Watercress has been called a cancer fighting Superfood, has more Vitamin C than an orange, and has immunity building properties!  Watercress is a small leafy green with a peppery bite much like a radish.  It can be found in the refrigerated produce section and is grown in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments.  It’s wonderful when added to smoothies or in your juicing recipes.   I’ll be munching on a handful two hours before my runs and report back about any benefits I’ve noticed :)

 

Sign up for some of the following runs, and then let me know on our blog if you notice any changes:

• Atlantic Beach Marshfest 5k, November 16th
• McKenzie's Run, November 16th
• Ryan's Run, November 23rd
• 3rd Annual Joint Replacement Fun Walk, November 23rd
• NEVER QUIT Giving Thanks: 5K and 1 Mile, November 24th
• Subaru Distance Classic, November 28th
• Guana 50K and 12K Trail Races, December 1st
• Festival of Lights, December 7th
• Reindeer Run, December 8th
• Jingle Bell Run, December 14th
• The Last Gasp, December 21st
• Winter Blast 6K Run, December 28th

For more races visit:

http://www.runningintheusa.com/Race/List.aspx?Rank=Upcoming&State=FL&Page=1

Authored by Kim Usry, Fitness chair of Healthy Kids Initiative, at Ocean Palms Elementary.

Sources are too many to list so please contact Kim at kbusry@gmail.com to request sources.