Five health benefits of parsley and a detoxifying shake Not just a garnish anymore! This vitamin-rich diuretic is packed with healthful vitamins and powerful nutrients Oct 22, 2012 Julie Daniluk R.H.N. 1 Julie Daniluk Parsley is a nutritional powerhouse with vitamins A,B,C, and K and the minerals iron and potassium. This emerald green herb is popular among starlets who want to drop extra water weight before big events because it helps to reduce water retention and bloating (edema). It’s a natural diuretic, which helps to eliminate excess fluid without depleting the body of potassium. Beyond water weight, parsley aids in balancing blood sugar, helping with long-term weight balance. It also plays a key role in preventing the degenerative effects of diabetes on the liver. Advertisement Here are five more reasons to include parsley in every meal: 1. Reduce your cancer risk Eating parsley can reduce the risk of cancers such as breast, digestive tract, skin and prostate. Parsley contains high levels of a flavonoid called apigenin. Not only does apigenin possesses remarkable anti-cancer properties, it’s also a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. 2. Improve your immune function Parsley may help to modulate the immune system. Parsley essential oil has been shown to suppress an over-stimulated immune response making it a key player in the fight against allergies, autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders. 3. Beat inflammation Parsley helps to reduce the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Parsley contains a volatile oil called eugenol that has been shown in studies to have strong anti-inflammatory as well as anti-arthritic properties and can significantly suppress swelling in the joint. 4. Fight disease Parsley offers protection from a wide variety of diseases – from atherosclerosis, diabetes and colon cancer to asthma! Parsley is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is a key nutrient in the processes that neutralizes the free radicals that play a key role in the development of these diseases. 5. Protect your blood vessels Parsley is a good source of one of the most important B vitamins: folic acid. Folic acid helps to reduce homocysteine. Homocysteine is a naturally occurring amino acid in the body but high levels in the blood can damage blood vessels increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. detoxing parsley shake detoxing parsley shake Parsley detox shake If you have a big event planned, this is the perfect beverage to help you reduce any excess water weight. The parsley, cucumber and celery all work as a diuretic. The lemon and ginger are powerfully anti-inflammatory and add a great zing to the shake. Ingredients: 2 cups parsley, chopped 2 cups cucumber, chopped 3 tbsp lemon juice 1 apple, chopped 1 celery stick ¼ tsp ginger powder 2 cups spring water Directions: 1. Blend all ingredients in a blender on high until silky smooth Makes 2 large servings What’s your favourite way to eat parsley? Nutritionist Julie Daniluk hosts Healthy Gourmet, a reality cooking show that looks at the ongoing battle between taste and nutrition. She is the author of Meals That Heal Inflammation
Posted on: Mon, 29 Jul 2013 16:59:38 +0000
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