10 sprigs of parsley will provide you with
approximately: 4 calories, 1g carbohydrates, 13.3mg vitamin C, 0.3g protein, 0.6g
iron
Do you always leave that curly sprig of
parsley on the side of your plate? The decorative garnish may be easy to
overlook, but ignoring it means you’re missing out on a powerhouse of
nutrients.
Parsley’s star attraction is its natural
diuretic properties, which makes it great at banishing uncomfortable bloating
and water retention. Adding the garnish to your diet will also help to keep
your urinary system healthy by encouraging your kidneys to filter waste from
your blood efficiently. Your kidneys are one 10 of the most important
elimination organs in the body, and they also play a role in fine-tuning levels
of electrolyte minerals such as sodium, potassium and phosphorus, which help to
keep your cells functioning properly.
Parsley’s
star attraction is its natural diuretic properties, which makes it great at
banishing uncomfortable bloating and water retention.
The other big benefit of this little green
herb is its ability to boost your iron levels. Like most green leafy veg, it’s
in iron, so it’s ideal if you are anemic vegetarian or suffer from heavy periods.
Parsley’s high vitamin C and beta-car content are also great for supporting
your immune system, and its key chemical compounds (eugenol and apigenin) have
anti-inflammatory properties that can help to treat ailments such as arthritis
and asthma. Plus, it’s vitamin A and C levels mean this herb is a fantastic
skin booster.
Parsley is also widely used as a breath
freshener, as it’s thought the herb’s high chlorophyll content helps to break
down bacteria and increase saliva in the mouth. Munch on a few sprigs of fresh,
raw parsley or blend it into a juice to sweeten your breath. And next time you
get bitten by a muzzy, try applying some fresh parsley or parsley juice
directly to the bite to relieve the itch. Just a garnish? Hardly!
The
other big benefit of this little green herb is its ability to boost your iron
levels.
3 ways with parsley
1.
Whizz upa juice
Parsley is the perfect addition to your
juices and smoothies. Blend together 4 carrots,1 apple, 1 kiwi fruit and a good
handful of parsley for a tasty and health-boosting breakfast juice to kick off
your day.
2.
Make a green tea
Brew a cup of parsley tea by steeping a
handful of leaves in some hot water for around 1-2 minutes. Carefully remove
them or leave them in for a stronger flavor and drink up to reap this herb’s
many antioxidant benefits.
Brew
a cup of parsley tea by steeping a handful of leaves in some hot water for
around 1-2 minutes.
3.
Play with pesto
Swap basil for parsley in your next batch
of pesto. Blend 2 handfuls of parsley with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, a small
handful of pi ne nuts and a handful of Parmesan cheese. Drizzle on pasta, soup,
fish and more.
