Health Benefits of Kangkong

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Aug 25, 2021 • 3 min Read

Kangkong, also known as water spinach, is famous for being a great provider of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It has been used as a medicinal vegetable in Southeast Asia since 300 AD.

Kangkong is one of the most common ingredients in whatever vegetable dish that we Pinoys prepare. It can be consumed raw or steamed, boiled, or stir-fried.

Here are some of the amazing benefits of kangkong:

1. Improves Eyesight

Kangkong is a rich source of beta-carotene, lutein, and xanthene, that are beneficial for eyesight. Beta-carotene helps prevent vitamin A deficiencies, eye ulcers, and dry eyes. The anti-inflammatory properties of this green can reduce the puffiness or irritation in the eyes. The lutein and zeaxanthin present in kangkong can prevent the eyes from the harsh effects of UV rays that lead to cataracts. They may also help reduce the impact of free radicals.

2. May Provide Neurological Benefits

Kangkong may possibly influence cognitive function. Several components of this vegetable like potassium, folate, and various antioxidants are known to provide neurological benefits to people who regularly consume it.

3. May Maintain Blood Pressure

Kangkong may be rich in potassium and contains low sodium content in its raw form. This composition of minerals proves to be highly beneficial for people with high blood pressure as it may regulate it. Folate present in kangkong may contribute to the reduction of hypertension and can relax blood vessels while maintaining proper blood flow.

4. May Strengthen Muscles

An antioxidant present in kangkong may play an important role in strengthening heart muscles which continuously pump blood to all parts of the body. It might prevent several cardiovascular diseases like hyperlipidemia, heart failure, hypertension, and coronary heart disease.

5. May Help in Bone Mineralization

Kangkong is a good source of vitamin K which can help retain calcium in the bone matrix and leads to bone mineralization. Other minerals like manganese, copper, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus can also help in building up strong bones that help prevent an individual from developing osteoporosis. These minerals may be essential for maintaining healthy teeth and nails.

6. May Help Aid the Digestive System

Kangkong can protect the mucous membrane of the stomach, thereby decreasing the occurrence of gastric ulcers. The glycoglycerolipids found in kangkong may boost the strength of the digestive tract lining and might also prevent any unwanted inflammation in that part of the body.

7. May Help with Fetal Development

Kangkong is rich in folate and recommended for pregnant women. A growing fetus needs an ample amount of folate for proper development of the nervous system. Defects like cleft palate or spina bifida may occur due to deficiency of folate. The high levels of vitamin A in it are advised to be consumed in recommended daily amounts by the mother until after birth. Vitamin A may be required for proper lung development of the fetus and can be transferred during breastfeeding.

8. May Reduce Inflammation

Kangkong may be one of the most powerful vegetables when it comes to reducing inflammation throughout the body. This may not only protect the heart but can also reduce the inflammation and pain associated with conditions like arthritis and gout.

9. May Help Protect Skin

Different phytonutrients and pigments may help protect the skin from the harmful rays of the sun, including UV rays.

Indeed, kangkong is a powerhouse of nutrients. Start adding this delicious veggie to your daily diet and enjoy its benefits!

Stay healthy and safe!