LETTUCE
According to the writings of Herodotus, lettuce was served to the
Persian kings in the sixth century B.C. Along with endive and dandelions,
lettuce stems from Compositae, the daisy family. What we call lettuce
today derives from an ancient strain native to Asia that is over 5,000
years old.
Lettuce is available all year. It's peak months are May, June and July.
Butter lettuce and crisphead are most popular for salads, although
the Romaine or Cos type is the most beneficial from a nutritional standpoint,
because the sun penetrates every leaf. Good quality lettuce should be
fresh, crisp and tender
Beneficial Effects:
Leaf lettuce is rich in iron. Avoid iceberg or head lettuce whenever
possible, because it is devoid of most of the nutrients found in all
other types of lettuce, like Vitamin A and Vitamin C.
Lettuce juice is good for those seeking to lose weight. Lettuce has
many sleep-promoting elements.
