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Lettuce is a vegetable very rich in folic acid. We have several types of lettuce on the market, each with a different flavor. Some, such as butter lettuce, can be stored very shortly, while others, such as iceberg lettuce, keep their freshness and flavor longer. What are the different types of lettuce? What nutritional values can we find in lettuce leaves?
Lettuce – nutritional values
Lettuce is a vegetable rich in folic acid and fiber, thanks to which it reduces the absorption of fats and sugars. Lettuce is a source of B, E and C vitamins, iron, potassium and magnesium.
It is widely known that lettuce helps maintain a healthy weight and is often recommended by nutritionists. Moreover, lettuce is low in calories. In 100g of butter lettuce we find about 15 kcal.
Lettuces with dark green, red and brown leaves contain the most nutritional value. However, remember that lettuce should be eaten fresh, otherwise it loses minerals and vitamins.
Lettuce – properties
In addition to reducing the absorption of fats and sugars, lettuce contains powerful antioxidants that help protect the body from macular degeneration. In addition, lettuce helps to strengthen the nervous system, deacidifies, improves digestion and increases immunity. Therefore, it is worth including it in the daily menu, and children should add green leaves to their sandwiches.
Butter lettuce
The most popular and well-known lettuce is butter lettuce. It is characterized by large, green leaves with a delicate flavor. Butter lettuce is a rich source of fiber, magnesium, iron, vitamins B and C. You should know that this type of lettuce loses its flavor and crispness quickly, so eat it fresh.
Iceberg lettuce
Apart from butter lettuce, iceberg lettuce is a characteristic type of lettuce. Contrary to its predecessor, iceberg lettuce leaves are very fragile and we can store them longer. It is worth emphasizing, however, that it has a lower nutritional value than butter lettuce.
Rocket
Contrary to appearances, torn arugula leaves are also lettuce. It has a much more distinct taste and is sharper. Arugula is rich in folic acid, iodine and calcium. We often find rocket in the Mediterranean diet. It goes well with vegetables, fruit, feta cheese and nuts. It keeps you fresh for several days.
Rosponka
The lamb’s lettuce has small round green leaves. It contains large amounts of potassium as well as iron and vitamin B.
Roman salad
Romaine lettuce has an oblong shape. The leaves are fleshy wrinkled and long. Romaine lettuce is high in vitamin A and chromium. It keeps it fresh for a long time. The taste of romaine lettuce is definitely sweeter than butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce.
radicchio
Radicchio can be confused with cabbage. The leaves of this lettuce are maroon white. Radicchio is rich in fiber. The taste of radicchio lettuce is similar to that of chicory. Due to its properties and color, radicchio goes well with other salads. However, the depth of this lettuce is not suitable for eating.
Chicory
Yes, chicory is also lettuce. Its shape resembles a flask with characteristic white and yellow leaves. Chicory is a rich source of inulin which regulates blood cholesterol levels. Chicory tastes bitter. It tastes best when soaked in cold water.