Produce Name: Lettuce - Chikory

Availability: All Round the Year

Also called curly endive or simply endive, chicory forms a loose bunch of ragged-edged leaves on long stems. The outer leaves are deep green and have an assertive, slightly bitter taste; the leaves in the center are yellow and milder tasting.

Nutritional Facts
The nutritional value of lettuce varies with the variety. Lettuce in general provides small amounts of dietary fiber, some carbohydrates, a little protein and a trace of fat. Its most important nutrients are vitamin A and potassium. The vitamin A comes from beta carotene, whose yellow-orange is hidden by green chlorophyll pigments. Beta carotene, of course, is converted to vitamin A in the human body.

Medicinal / Therapeutic Use
According to the American Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society, foods rich in vitamin A and C (antioxidants) offer protection against some forms of cancer. Along with other phytochemical, antioxidants reduce the risk of cancer of the respiratory system and intestinal tract.