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Watercress and the Cretan Bowl Diet…Watercress is believed by many to be an aphrodisiac. Here in Crete, it is believed by the islanders to have almost magical powers! Watercress is an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B3 and Vitamin K. Vitamin A assists with cell reproduction. It also stimulates immunity and is needed for formation of some hormones. Vitamin A helps vision and supports bone growth, tooth development, and helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and mucous membranes. Deficiency of Vitamin A can cause night blindness, dry skin, poor bone growth, and weak tooth enamel. 
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is important in the production of energy and assists cells in converting carbohydrates into energy. It is also essential for the functioning of the heart, muscles, and nervous system. Shortage of thiamine can cause weakness and fatigue.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) assists in the functioning of the digestive system, skin, and nerves. It is also important for the conversion of food to energy. Vitamin K is fat-soluble and plays a major role in blood clotting. It regulates blood calcium levels and activates proteins involved in bone health. Watercress also contains Calcium, Iron, and Potassium. Calcium helps with sleep and eases insomnia and helps regulate the passage of nutrients through cell walls. Calcium is necessary for muscles contracting properly, blood-clotting functions and for nerves carry messages. Insufficient calcium from foods mean the body automatically takes the calcium needed from bones. Deficiency may result in muscle spasms and cramps in the short term and osteoporosis longer term. Iron deficiency can be a problem for infants, adolescent girls and pregnant women. Deficiency can also affect the immune system and cause weakness and fatigue. Potassium is an essential mineral for the growth and maintenance of the body. It is needed to maintain a normal water balance between the cells and body fluids. Potassium also plays an essential role in proper heart function. Deficiency may cause muscular cramps, twitching and weakness, irregular heartbeat, insomnia, kidney and lung failure.
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