You know what they say: You are what you eat! Your diet is paramount to your wellbeing. If you’re trying to keep your gut healthy or shed pounds, you probably already know that the foods you eat on a regular basis can make a major difference in these efforts, playing a pivotal role in maintaining overall health. Your meals can impact not only weight management but also digestive function and metabolic processes.
Incorporating nutrient-rich superfoods into your meals can provide significant benefits for both gut health and weight loss. Purslane, a leafy green often hailed as a superfood, is not only low in calories but also packed with essential nutrients that can aid in achieving your health goals. We checked in with dietitian Trista Best to learn more about the benefits of this nutrient-packed salad ingredient. Find all of her expert insight below.
Benefits of Purslane for Gut Health and Weight Loss
Okay, first thing's first: you might be wondering what, exactly, purslane is. Officially named Portulaca oleracea, this succulent herb is known for its impressive nutritional profile. "Purslane is low in calories but high in water and fiber, making it a filling addition to salads without significantly increasing calorie intake," Best tells us. This high fiber content can be particularly beneficial for those looking to lose weight without feeling hungry all day.
Purslane is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it one of the best plant-based sources available, according to Best. “Omegs-3s may help reduce inflammation and support metabolic health,” Best notes.
This under-appreciated salad ingredient also helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is crucial to preventing cravings and controlling appetite, Best points out.
Additionally, Purslane is packed with vitamins (like vitamin C, vitamin A, and some B vitamins), minerals (like magnesium, calcium, and potassium), and antioxidants. In addition to so many other benefits offered by these nutrients, they support a healthy gut microbiome, adding another point to the laundry list of reasons to add purslane to your salads.
"The gel-like consistency of Purslane may aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome, which can play a role in weight management," Best adds.
It's worth noting that the benefits for weight loss and gut health go hand in hand, as gut health influences how the body processes food and absorbs nutrients. So, next time you're whipping up a big old healthy salad bowl, consider adding Purslane to the mix. Your body will thank you!
READ MORE: The 16 Best Gut-Healing Foods That Reduce Bloating And Improve Digestion
