Antioxidants In Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce, the lettuce used in Caesar salads, as a dressing on sandwiches and as a wrap for appetizers, is packed full of nutrients. The green lettuce leaves contain fiber, vitamins, calcium, folate and antioxidants. The antioxidants in romaine lettuce include vitamin C, beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin and saponins. These antioxidants support long-term health and protect your body against free radicals, agents that cause cellular damage.

Vitamin C

Romaine lettuce contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against free radicals. According to Colorado State University Extension, romaine lettuce includes 24 milligrams of vitamin C per 100-gram serving. Even small amounts of vitamin C can protect your fat, carbohydrate, protein, DNA and RNA molecules from pollutants and toxins that contain free radicals that cause oxidative damage. Additionally, ingestion of vitamin C may help your body reverse harmful oxidation of other antioxidants such as vitamin E.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids, colorful pigments synthesized by lettuce and other plants that provide antioxidant benefits. Romaine lettuce contains 2,312 micrograms of lutein and zeaxanthin, according to Colorado State University Extension. These carotenoids are the only carotenoids found in the lens and the retina of your eyes. Lutein and zeaxanthin aid in slowing age-related eye diseases, such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Vitamin A and Beta-Carotene

Romaine lettuce contains 5,807 international units of vitamin A per 100 grams, according to Colorado State University Extension. Vitamin A provides antioxidant benefits that protect your mucous membranes and skin, boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. The vitamin A in romaine lettuce contains beta-carotene, an active antioxidant and carotenoid. Consumption of beta-carotene foods, such as romaine lettuce, is linked to a decreased risk of developing certain types of cancers and heart disease. Romaine lettuce contains 3,484 micrograms of beta-carotene for every 100 grams.

Saponins

Saponins are phytochemicals that naturally occur in green, leafy vegetables, such as romaine lettuce. Phytonutrients are special compounds that act as natural antibiotics by protecting the vegetable against harmful bacteria and fungus. These nutrient compounds also provide healthful benefits to humans by acting as antioxidants that may help fight disease and aging. Additionally, saponins aid in fighting yeast infections, fungi, blood and lung cancers, viruses and microbes. Saponins may also help reduce your blood cholesterol levels.