Also Provides Magnesium
The Nutrition Source explains that magnesium helps with many important jobs in our bodies. These include keeping our blood sugar and blood pressure at healthy levels, helping our muscles and nerves work properly, and also building proteins and making our bones stronger. Eating a diet that includes enough magnesium may help lower the chance of developing certain health issues like high blood pressure and migraines. (It’s worth noting that studies on whether magnesium supplements provide the same benefits have had mixed results. Because of this, experts often suggest getting magnesium from the foods we eat.)
Things to Be Aware Of
It’s important to know that purslane also contains high amounts of oxalates. Oxalates are natural substances found in many plants and also made by our bodies. However, they aren’t a nutrient we need, and too much of them might not be good for everyone. Oxalates can bind to other minerals in our digestive system, like calcium and iron, forming compounds that are then passed out of the body instead of being absorbed. Sometimes, this binding can also lead to the formation of crystals, which can contribute to kidney stones.
Who Might Want to Be Careful with Purslane?
Because of the oxalate content, research often suggests that people who have high levels of this acid in their urine should follow a diet low in oxalates. If this applies to you, or if you have conditions that increase your risk of kidney stones (like inflammatory bowel disease or other problems with your digestive system), it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor before you start eating purslane regularly.
How You Can Eat Purslane
Purslane is a flexible and nutritious ingredient that you can add to salads, soups, stews, or even smoothies. Whether cooked or raw, it brings not only unique texture and flavor but also a powerhouse of health benefits that may surprise those who once thought of it as just a common weed.
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