Spring marks the season when Chinese lettuce, also known as "thousand-gold vegetable," becomes widely available. Rich in nutrients, it promotes blood circulation, aids urination, lowers blood sugar and blood pressure, and protects vital organs. It is particularly suitable for individuals at high risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
What are the benefits of eating lettuce in spring?
1. Boosts appetite, protects heart and liver
Lettuce's slight bitterness stimulates the digestive system by increasing bile secretion, which in turn enhances intestinal motility and improves appetite.Consuming more lettuce in spring can help combat allergic rhinitis. Research indicates that lettuce stems and leaves contain a unique substance with anesthetic and analgesic properties. It also stimulates digestive fluid secretion to boost appetite, improves liver function, and helps prevent gout and rheumatic diseases.
2. Improves glucose metabolism
Lettuce is rich in minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber. Its niacin content aids glucose metabolism, making it suitable for diabetics. The abundant potassium in lettuce promotes urination, reducing pressure on the heart chambers, and is beneficial for individuals with heart disease or hypertension.The trace amounts of iodine in lettuce can boost basal metabolic rate and regulate physiological functions. It also possesses calming effects; regular consumption can alleviate tension and stabilize mood.
How to pair lettuce?
1. Lettuce with black fungus
Lettuce aids digestion and boosts appetite, making it suitable for those with heart disease or hypertension. Black fungus nourishes the stomach, moistens the lungs, lowers blood lipids, and aids weight loss, helping prevent hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and diabetes.
2.Lettuce with Shiitake Mushrooms or Garlic Sprouts
Stir-frying lettuce with shiitake mushrooms lowers blood lipids and blood pressure while promoting diuresis and bowel movements. This combination benefits those with habitual constipation, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. Lettuce strengthens bones and joints while clearing heat and detoxifying, while garlic sprouts eliminate toxins and kill bacteria. Together, they effectively reduce blood pressure.
Friendly Reminder
Lettuce leaves are exceptionally nutrient-dense, so never discard them. Enjoy lettuce raw or cooked, or try it in cold bamboo shoot salads or spicy-sour lettuce dishes. While highly beneficial, excessive consumption may cause eye strain or night blindness.When selecting lettuce, choose heads with bright, glossy green leaves free from rot. Denser leaf veins indicate higher nutritional content. Stored in a cool, well-ventilated place, lettuce lasts up to three days; refrigeration extends shelf life to one week. Avoid storing alongside bananas or pears, as they may cause brown spots.