The Amazing Wonders of Parsley

Parsley to me was formerly known as a herb used to garnish meals, making them look more appealing, but often the only part of a meal left on the plate. I have always enjoyed the taste of it in small amounts but never really been too fussed about going out of my way to eat it.

Over time, and after developing severe anaemia, I discovered a few of it's benefits such as Iron which I desperately needed to get more of into my diet. Recently I have found out some incredibly amazing health benefits that can be gained from eating parsley and I was so astonished at how impressive this fuzzy little green plant is, that I wanted to share it with you all!

Parsley is super rich in Vitamins A and C, in fact just two tablespoons of parsley contain around 12% of the RDA (Recommended Daily Intake) of vitamin A and 16% of the RDA of vitamin C. Vitamin C is necessary for collagen, the main structural protein found in connective tissue. This essential nutrient will not only accelerate the body's ability to repair wounds, but also maintain healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin A fortifies the entry points into the human body, such as mucous
membranes, the lining of the eyes, and respiratory, urinary and intestinal tracts. Moreover, lymphocytes, or white blood cells, rely on vitamin A to fight infection in the body.

Parsley contains an antioxidant arsenal that includes luteolin, a flavoniod that searches out an eradicates free radicals in the body that cause oxidative stress to cells, also promotes carbohydrate metabolism and serves the body as an anti-inflammatory.

Two tablespoons of parsley have a whopping 153% of the RDA of vitamin K, which is necessary for the synthesis of osteocalcin, a protein that strengthens the composition of our bones. Vitamin K also prevents calcium build-up in our tissue that can lead to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Homocysteine, an amino acid that occurs in the body, threatens the body's blood vessels when its levels become too high. Folate (vitamin B9) found in parsley helps convert homocysteine into harmless molecules, helping ward off cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis.

Parsley is Anti-Cancer. Studies show that myristicin, a compound found in the essential oil of parsley, not only inhibits tumor formation (especially in the lungs), but also activates the enzyme glutathione-S-transferase, which helps the molecule glutathione attach to, and fight against, oxidized molecules. Myristicin can also neutralize carcinogens like benzopyrene in cigarette smoke that can pass through the body, consequently fighting against cancer especially that of the colon and prostate.

So there you have 5 GREAT reasons to add or increase your consumption of Parsley!

Parsley can easily be added to a stir-fry, a juice or a smoothie, soups or salads, and the more you eat it the more you will crave and enjoy it! :-)

Xx Samara