1. The origin of the misunderstanding of water spinach
Water spinach, also known as cabbage, rattan and rattan in the folk, is a favorite vegetable. In the central and southern regions of China, water spinach is a regular on almost every household table due to its unique taste and nutritional value. However, in recent years, some misconceptions and rumors about water spinach have spread widely on the Internet, casting a shadow over this otherwise nutritious vegetable.
These misconceptions mainly revolve around two aspects: first, water spinach is known as the "king of all poisons", believing that it can absorb a large amount of heavy metals and pesticide residues in the soil; The second is to associate water spinach with cramps, calling it "cramp vegetables", believing that eating too much will lead to calcium loss, which in turn will cause problems such as leg cramps.
These claims put many people off about water spinach, but in reality, they are all misconceptions that lack scientific basis.
2. About the so-called "King of All Poisons".
First of all, the claim that water spinach is the "king of all poisons" originated from a misunderstanding of its growth characteristics and environmental adaptability. As a shallow-rooted crop, water spinach does have a short growth cycle and a fast growth rate, but this does not mean that it is more likely to absorb heavy metals and pesticide residues than other vegetables.
In fact, the growing environment of all vegetables cannot completely avoid these problems, and water spinach does not have a special absorption capacity that makes it the "king of all poisons".
More importantly, according to the provisions of the "National Food Safety Standard Contaminant Limit in Food", the heavy metal content in water spinach is far lower than the national standard limit value. This means that water spinach purchased from regular channels has undergone strict testing before going on the market, and its safety is guaranteed. Therefore, we don't really need to worry too much about the problem of excessive heavy metals.
3. About the so-called "cramp dishes".
On the other hand, there is also a lack of scientific basis for the claim that water spinach causes cramps. Although water spinach contains a certain amount of oxalic acid, excessive intake may increase the risk of calcium oxalate precipitation, thereby inhibiting the absorption and utilization of calcium.
But oxalic acid is not only found in water spinach, many other vegetables also contain this substance. As long as it is consumed in moderation, it will not cause health effects.
In addition, most of the oxalic acid components in water spinach can be removed by blanching, further reducing the risk of consumption. Therefore, it is not scientific to call water spinach a "cramp dish". In fact, moderate consumption of water spinach not only does not cause problems such as cramps, but helps to replenish minerals and vitamins such as calcium and potassium that the body needs.
4. The nutritional value and health benefits of water spinach
In addition to clarifying misconceptions, we should also understand the real nutritional value of water spinach. This vegetable is rich in calcium, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin A and other nutrients, which are good for maintaining bone health, promoting metabolism, and protecting eyesight.
In addition, water spinach is also rich in dietary fiber, which helps to promote intestinal peristalsis and improve constipation.
Therefore, it is very important for our health to recognize and consume water spinach correctly. Don't be misled by unwarranted rumors and let this nutritious vegetable take care of our health.
Winter health care needs attention