Have you heard the rumors about iceberg lettuce being the black sheep of the lettuce family? Some say it’s nutritionally obsolete and should be replaced by its more nutrient-dense siblings. But today, I am here to set the record straight and tell you the truth about this crispy and crunchy lettuce.
First things first, let me introduce you to this misunderstood lettuce. Iceberg, or crisped lettuce, grows in a cabbage-like bulb with pale green leaves. It prefers a cold climate and takes a long winter to grow correctly. Therefore, it’s a great gardening option for people who live in northern climates. Besides its crunch and crispiness, which are undeniable and irreplaceable in certain dishes like a BLT, iceberg lettuce is sometimes scoffed at for its nutritional content.
While it’s true that there are other more nutrient-dense varieties of lettuce and leafy greens, iceberg lettuce isn’t void of nutrients. One cup of iceberg lettuce contains only eight calories, one gram of fiber, three percent of your potassium needs, which help support muscle function and heart health, and about 40 percent of your daily vitamin A needs, which help support immune function and healthy vision. Thanks to the fiber it contains, adding a side salad of iceberg lettuce to your meal can help you feel more full without adding many more calories, which may help with weight loss if that’s your goal.
So, is iceberg lettuce healthy? To put it in perspective, only one in ten Americans meet the suggested intake of fruits and vegetables each day. Not only can this make it hard to meet your fiber, vitamin, and nutrient needs, but it can also increase your risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. If eating iceberg lettuce helps you increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, it is healthy.
But are there other more nutrient-dense types of fruits and vegetables? Yes, variety is the name of the game when trying to meet your needs. So, include iceberg lettuce and various other types of produce.
In conclusion, iceberg lettuce may not be the superstar of the lettuce family, but it still deserves a place on your plate. It’s low in calories, contains fiber, and has good vitamin A and potassium. Don’t let the rumors fool you; iceberg lettuce can still be a delicious and nutritious meal addition.
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Source Description
In this video, join us as we explore the world of iceberg lettuce and delve into the debate surrounding its health benefits. Even though the health industry has scorned iceberg lettuce lately, there may be more to the story. Join the conversation as we address the question: Is iceberg lettuce a healthy choice, or should alternative lettuce varieties be considered for a balanced lifestyle?
#EatingWell #Iceberg #Lettuce #Healthy #Salad #Nutrition
Read the article at: https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7914889/is-iceberg-lettuce-healthy-according-to-a-dietitian/
00:24 What is Iceberg Lettuce?
00:50 Nutritional Considerations
1:27 Is It Healthy?
An EatingWell registered dietitian answers the internet’s burning questions about the hottest topics in nutrition, diet, and health.
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Is Iceberg Lettuce Good for You? | Dietitian Q&A | EatingWell
