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https://www.healthline.com/health/fo...ceberg-lettuce
Iceberg lettuce
Iceberg lettuce is the crunchy, pale vegetable you’ll often find added to your fast-food burger or diner salad when you eat out. It has a neutral taste and refreshing crunch, making it a favorite among children who won’t eat other kinds of lettuce. It’s not as rich in nutrition as many other greens, but it does provide some benefits.
Nutritional benefits of iceberg lettuce
Despite its reputation for being a complete zero on the nutritional scale, iceberg lettuce provides significant amounts of vitamins A and K. It also has small amounts of many other healthy nutrients. Although it’s low in fiber, it has a high water content, making it a refreshing choice during hot weather. It also provides calcium, potassium, vitamin C, and folate.
The nutrients in iceberg lettuce can help you to meet the standard daily requirements for several vitamins and minerals. They include:
- Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps keep your immune system healthy.
- Calcium, which keeps bones and teeth strong. It also supports muscle function, nerve function, and blood clotting.
- Vitamin K, a vitamin that works with calcium to prevent bone fractures. It’s also integral for blood clotting.
- Vitamin A (as beta carotene), a powerful antioxidant that helps to maintain night vision and eye health. It also supports cell growth.
- Folate, a B vitamin that helps to make DNA and genetic material. It’s especially important for women who are pregnant or who are planning to become pregnant.
- Potassium, a mineral that reduces blood pressure by lessening the effects of salt in the diet.
How does iceberg lettuce compare to other types?
Like most leafy greens, iceberg lettuce is low in calories, sugar, and fat. Iceberg lettuce only has aboutone calorieTrusted Source per leaf. It has a higher water content than many other types of lettuce. It may not be as vitamin- or nutrient-packed as darker, more colorful lettuce varietals — such as red leaf lettuce or spinach — but iceberg lettuce can still have a place in a healthy diet plan.
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