By Chisom Ibemere
Water leaf is a highly nutritious herbaceous plant that is grown in tropical regions of the world. It is a leafy vegetables which is native to West Africa and spread across all parts of the world. It is known by so many names such as Ceylon Spinach, Gbure, florida spinach, Lagos bologi etc. It is a greenish vegetable and produces small pink flowers with broad fleshy leaves. It is one of the most important vegetables in Nigeria and used mainly in soups and stews. It can be blended and used in making Juice.
This leafy vegetables is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, Beta-carotene, calcium, dietary fibre, magnesium, vitamins, protein etc. It is an excellent source of tannins, flavonoids, Saponins which are anti-oxidants that fights infections from the body. They contain bioactive compounds that are required in treating various sickness. They protect the body from the harsh effects of reactive Oxygen species.
Water leaf is an amazing vegetable for kidney health. This is due to the action of the bioactive compounds in them. They help to lower the effects of oxidative damages which may take place in the liver. It contains Iron that helps in pumping blood to all parts of the body. It is healthy for pregnant women because it helps to filter out bilirubin, which may pose harm to body cells, from the blood. This makes the red blood cells to work effectively and promotes good health.
The presence of fibre in water leaf helps to maintain the gut health. It ensures the growth of good bacteria while eliminating bad bacteria from the gut. It also helps in proper digestion of food, thereby preventing constipation.
Fibres are good for managing the level of cholesterol in the body. The rich anti-oxidants in water leaf is essential for the heart as it removes the bad cholesterol and diseases associates with it. Anti-oxidants protects the body from all forms of tumors, cancerous cells and inflammations.
Proper consumption of water leaf may be beneficial for the cerebral health. They promotes the cognitive ability and keeps the brain healthy. They contain high amount of water which keep the body hydrated at all times. The vitamins present promote good health.