VEG PATCH MEDICINE

THE health wonders that lie in your larder. This week: Watercress to prevent anaemia. GRAM for gram, watercress has almost as much iron as stewed extra-lean minced beef. It also contains more vitamin C than oranges — a nutrient that boosts the amount of iron your body absorbs.

Iron is critical for the healthy manufacture of red blood cells, and a low level — more common in women than men — can lead to anaemia, which is characterised by poor concentration and debilitating fatigue.

But you need to consume quite a bit — a little watercress on the side is not enough; aim for 80g in a salad or homemade bowl of soup to provide an eighth of the recommended dietary allowance.

This is especially important for vegetarians who can have low levels of iron, which is found in meat and dairy products.