Red leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a leafy vegetable in the daisy family.
Aside from adding a burst of color to your favorite salad or sandwich, this vegetable offers numerous benefits.
High in nutrients but low in calories
Red leaf lettuce is nutrient-dense, meaning that it’s high in a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, yet very low in calories.
Very hydrating
Red leaf lettuce is 96% water, making it incredibly thirst-quenching. Its high water content may also help curb hunger and promote fullness
Loaded with powerful antioxidants
Red leaf lettuce boasts a number of antioxidants, which protect your body from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals.
May keep your heart healthy
Red leaf lettuce contains decent amounts of magnesium and potassium, which may boost your heart health.
Excellent source of vitamin A
Adding just one or two servings of red leaf lettuce to your diet a few times per week can help you meet your needs for this vitamin.
Packed with vitamin K
This vitamin is important for bone growth and development. Adequate intake may protect against osteoporosis and fractures.
May help lower blood pressure
Potassium, which is found in adequate amounts in red leaf lettuce, appears to lower blood pressure by lessening the effects of sodium.
May promote weight loss
This vegetable is extremely low in calories but fairly high in fiber, which can keep you feeling full. Additionally, it has a high water content, that means significantly promote weight loss.
Easy to add to your diet
It can be enjoyed in salads or added to sandwiches or wraps for extra flavor, crunch, and color.