Mandaue City – If you are to look at one of the low-key abundant vegetable crops available, it must be Water Spinach which is the global term or what we locally call as Kangkong. Very common among a lot of Filipino dishes, especially pickling recipes we often find these edible plants, but we never take the opportunity or chance to look at the nutritional side or value of the semi-aquatic vegetable. What do you think are the benefits of this vegetable?

Surprisingly the water spinach has a lot of nutrients to offer. The nutrients in kangkong is almost equal to milk, banana and orange. It can reduce blood pressure, gives immunity to cancer, improve vision, boost immunity, and treat skin diseases. Kangkong is a rich source of various vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It also contains potassium and iron. Since it grows and thrives in a semi-aquatic environment, it also provides a lot of electrolytes. Another notable health benefit of kangkong is for the prevention of constipation because it is highly fibrous and aids in bowel movement.

An added advantage is that this underappreciated vegetable crop is very easy to grow in a home garden helping households to be food secure. Don’t you think all local eateries should have this on their menu? // NO I Gab Flores, RND