Lettuce is a green leafy vegetable, mainly used in green salads and sandwiches. It was first cultivated by ancient Egyptians and used as a medicinal plant and a religious symbol. Lettuce contains lots of vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin K. It contains 97% of daily requirement of vitamin K. Also it is a rich source of vitamin A.

There are several types of lettuce but the following are common:

• Iceberg lettuce or called Crisphead lettuce
• Romaine lettuce or Cos lettuce
• Oak leaf lettuce
• Red leaf and green leaf lettuce
• Butterhead Bibb or Boston

Romaine lettuce is the best among all types of lettuce. It originated in the island of Cos and hence called as Cos lettuce. It is dark leafy and grows tall headed. It contains 36% vitamin A, 34% folate, 29% vitamin C. Also it is a rich source of some minerals like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, manganese and iron.

Lettuce protects against eye disorders

Because it is a rich source of vitamin A, it is effective against inflammatory conditions and oxidative stress which can cause tissue and cellular damage. It also protects against eye disorders. Beta-carotene prevents macular degeneration gives healthy vision.

Lettuce is good for heart and also helps with weight loss

Romaine lettuce is fat-free that’s why it can help with weight loss. It is a good source of dietary fiber provides instant relief from constipation.

Romaine lettuce is very good for the heart. It contains Vitamin B9 which maintains homocysteine level in the body and prevent atherosclerosis.

Lettuce is good for bone health

Romaine lettuce provides vitamin K and manganese making it an excellent source of vitamin and mineral which is very good for bone health. Also it prevents osteoporosis.

Lettuce is good for skin health and reduces risk of cancer

Romaine lettuce is a great source of vitamin C and which is very good for skin health. Romaine lettuce also boosts immunity and reduces the risk of cancer. Antioxidants in it help to prevent cancer.

Lettuce helps in Addison’s disease

Romaine lettuce juice is most beneficial in conditions affecting the adrenal gland. Lettuce with small amount addition of kelp (seaweed) has been found to help the activity of adrenal cortex which secretes adrenalin to keep the body in balance. Since romaine lettuce is high in sodium and contains relatively low amount of potassium it helps in Addison’s disease which caused by adrenal cortex hormone deficiency.